Grampians Health unveils first Microwave Ablation device in Ballarat to treat cancer
Michael Lewis, Velorat: Ross Huntington, Velorats' Captain; Scott Robson, Radiologist, Bronwyn Bentley NUM Radiology; Garry Trotter, Velorat; Dan Cronin, Velorat; Michael Weadon, Velorat; Luke Dunne, Velorat and Claire Woods, Chief People Officer.
Grampians Health Ballarat has welcomed its first Microwave Ablation device, thanks to the 2025 fundraising efforts of local cycling group, the Velorats, during the annual Murray to Moyne ride.
This state-of-the-art device provides a minimally invasive treatment for renal cancer, giving patients access to the latest cancer treatment without the need to travel to Melbourne. Using microwave energy, it heats and destroys cancer cells, allowing tumors to be treated without surgery.
Bronwyn Bentley, Nurse Unit Manager of Radiology at Grampians Health Ballarat, said the device is life-changing for local patients.
“Thanks to the efforts of the Velorats, we have now been able to purchase our own microwave ablation device. This means our eligible renal cancer patients can have treatment that is less invasive, quicker and gentler, which means less time in hospital and more time with their families.
“The whole Radiology team are proud to have brought this treatment to Grampians Health. In a first for Ballarat, this treatment replaces technology that had slower recovery times and higher risks of complications. It also provides significant improvements and flexibility in managing treatment for patients, and a more cost-effective solution for Grampians Health.”
Velorats Captain, Ross Huntington, speaking on behalf of the team, said their fundraising was about more than cycling.
“We’re all locals, with family, friends and neighbours who rely on Grampians Health Ballarat. Funding the new Microwave Ablation device means our loved ones facing cancer can access world-class treatment close to home. We’re proud that doing something we love can deliver equipment to support local cancer patients and their families right here in our community.”
Claire Woods, Chief People Officer at Grampians Health, said the Velorats’ donation showed the power of local community support.
“Our health service relies on the generosity of people in our region to help us bring new treatments and technologies to Ballarat. The Velorats and their supporters have made this possible, giving our public hospital the chance to offer cutting-edge care locally. It’s incredible to see what can be achieved when a community comes together to support its own.”
The Velorats’ success is built on community. Each rider is sponsored by a local business and the team also received over 200 individual donations from their networks.
