February 2026
St John of God Bendigo Hospital celebrated its 100th robotic-assisted surgical case using the da Vinci Xi system, just months after the program’s first case on 12 March 2025. With strong clinical uptake and community support, the donor-funded robot has brought world-class, minimally invasive care closer to home for people across central and northern Victoria.
Robotic-assisted surgery can mean smaller incisions, less pain, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery for suitable patients - reducing the need to travel to Melbourne for care.
Chief Executive Michael Hogan said the pace of progress reflects growing regional capability.
“From our first case on 12 March to our 100th today, the momentum is remarkable. It speaks to the skill of our surgeons, theatre and nursing teams - and to a community that believed Bendigo could lead. We’re carefully expanding into appropriate specialties and training local talent to sustain the service for years to come.”
The hospital will continue developing the program in line with patient need and safety, partnering with clinicians and caregivers to deliver exceptional outcomes for the region.
Director of Business Development Anna Hill thanked donors, sponsors and partners.
“This achievement belongs to Bendigo. To our major donors, philanthropic families, corporate sponsors and every person who gave - thank you. Your generosity keeps families close, eases the burden of travel and invests in compassionate, high-quality care for our region.
As we power toward more cases, we remain focused on evidence-based growth and exceptional patient experience.”
Bendigo caregivers celebrate milestone surgery with the da Vinci robot.