Surgical robot fundraiser strikes gold

St John of God Bendigo Hospital has struck gold with a substantial contribution from Agnico Eagle Mines, operators of the Fosterville Gold Mine, to the fundraiser for a da Vinci Xi surgical robot.

1 Oct 2024

The da Vinci Xi is a breakthrough in surgical technology that will enable high-precision cancer surgery for patients in Bendigo and the region without the need to travel to Melbourne.

Agnico Eagle Vice-President Australian Operations, Mr Ion Hann, said the contribution was provided through the Australian Community Partnership Program and supports the company’s commitment to grow a lasting positive legacy in the community.

“The ambition of Agnico Eagle is to ensure the entire regional community benefits from our Fosterville Gold Mine Operations. This project aligns directly with our Values,” Mr Hann said.

“We care deeply about the provision of high-quality health care in Central Victoria and recognise this cutting-edge surgical technology will deliver significant benefits from across the broader region.”

The robot enables minimally invasive surgery, providing assistance across a range of cancer-related procedures including prostate, stomach, pancreatic, liver, colorectal, head and neck, and lung.

St John of God Bendigo Hospital Chief Executive Officer, Michael Hogan, welcomed the company’s contribution.

“This substantial and generous contribution is a game changer for the da Vinci Xi project,” he said.

“St John of God Health Care is revolutionising patient outcomes through access to the latest equipment.

“Having the right technology is not just about keeping up with the times, it’s about redefining health care by staying at the forefront of innovation and improving our community’s care.”

The hospital’s Director of Marketing and Business Development Anna Hill, who is leading the fundraiser, said thanks to the Fosterville Gold Mine, the dream is closer to being realised.

“We’re confident that with additional support from the community and local businesses and organisations, we can reach the overall target of $2 million and provide enhanced surgical services,” she said.

“The da Vinci Xi robot will enable quicker recovery times for patients, a reduced stay in our Bendigo hospital and reduced overall complications.”

For Ms Hill, the connection with Fosterville is personal as her grandparents previously farmed the land where the mine is located and her family continues to own and farm property nearby.

Donations can be made online at www.sjogfoundation.org.au/donate-bendigo or by calling the St John of God Foundation on 1800 281 288.