As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. Today marks the culmination of an era as we bid farewell to Sunraysia Hearing Clinic (our business name behind Country Hearing Care) ahead of our merge with Ballarat Hearing Clinic and beginning of our combined new entity, Country Hearing Care Pty Ltd on Monday 1st July.
This momentous occasion prompts us to reflect on our journey, celebrate our milestones, and acknowledge the contributions that have brought us here. As we close this chapter, and we embark on a new, exciting phase!
Our Journey and Milestones
For more than two decades, Sunraysia Hearing Clinic has set the benchmark for quality client care, serving those in need of hearing healthcare across our regions.
Some of our milestone moments include:
- From Humble Beginnings: Starting with a suitcase in a room at the old Mildura Base Hospital, our founders Jane and Don MacDonald’s determination laid the groundwork for a trusted name in hearing care.
- Establishing Our Own Clinic: Opening our initial clinic at 194 Ontario Avenue, Mildura, provided a stable and professional environment for our clients and set the stage for growth.
- Expanding Our Team: Bringing on and training more clinical team members (including Barney Mitcham, Lauren Buckley and Fiona DeBoo), expanded our capacity to serve the community and enhance the quality of care.
- Reaching New Communities: Expanding to Swan Hill marked the beginning of our expansion journey to provide accessible, ethical hearing care services to more communities.
- Permanent Sites: Establishing a site in Echuca and transitioning to a permanent clinic in Broken Hill cemented our presence in these regions.
- Entering the Bendigo Region: Acquiring Eaglehawk Hearing Clinic allowed us to extend our services to Bendigo, culminating in the opening of a multi-clinician clinic in Bendigo’s medical precinct in the coming weeks.
We have also been committed to fostering the next generation of hearing care professionals, involving more than 20 audiology internships and 4 audiometry training programs over the past two decades. This dedication to education and professional development has enriched the wider field and ensured a legacy of excellence in hearing care.
Honouring Our Legacy and Embracing the Future
We recognise the dedicated administrative staff and our entire team whose impactful contributions have enriched our company’s history. The solid foundations laid by our founders, Don and Jane MacDonald, have been crucial to our success. Their vision, dedication, and hard work established the groundwork for our achievements, driven by their pursuit of excellence, ethical care, and commitment to our communities.
As we merge with Ballarat Hearing Care, we also honour Campbell Stevens and Richard Roper, who have been instrumental in the success of hearing care in the Ballarat region and beyond. Their invaluable contributions have left a lasting impact on their community. Together, these visionaries have created a legacy of care and compassion that will inspire us as we move forward.
Community Impact
Our journey has been closely intertwined with the communities we serve—from Mildura to Ballarat, Swan Hill to Echuca, and beyond. Your support has been pivotal, propelling us forward. We take pride in enhancing community well-being through accessible, ethical hearing care services. Whether through community outreach programs, educational initiatives, or as a trusted provider, making a positive impact is at the heart of our mission.
The Future Ahead: Country Hearing Care Pty Ltd
The merger of Sunraysia Hearing Clinic and Ballarat Hearing Care to form Country Hearing Care Pty Ltd marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. By combining our strengths, resources, and expertise, we aim to elevate the standard of hearing care and expand our reach to serve even more communities. We remain committed to our core values: prioritising ethical client care, upholding the highest standards of service, and striving for excellence. Our clients can expect the same level of dedication and compassion they trust, now enhanced by the combined expertise of these two organisations.
Heartfelt Gratitude and Forward Vision
Heartfelt gratitude is extended to everyone who has been part of the Sunraysia Hearing Clinic journey. To our wonderful clients and communities, thank you for entrusting us with your care and allowing us to be part of your lives and hearing journeys. Your support has been instrumental in our growth and success.
To our dedicated team members, past and present, thank you for your hard work and commitment to our mission. To our core management team—Maddi Kennedy, Rachel Furze, and Sophie Carson—thank you for helping to steer the ship and leading your teams with passion and expertise. To our external support team—Simon Virgona, Tracey Black, Daniel Kelly, Rob Klarich, Paul Jenkins, Paul Meredith, Lewis Smallwood, and many more—you are integral to our business, and we deeply appreciate your support.
Finally, to Don and Jane MacDonald, Campbell Stevens, and Richard Roper: Thank you for your vision, leadership, and unwavering dedication over many years of service. We stand on the shoulders of giants!
Farewell, Sunraysia Hearing Clinic and Ballarat Hearing Clinic! Welcome, Country Hearing Care Pty Ltd!
