Bendigo Under Pressure: Hospital Code Yellow and Widespread Power Outages Strain the City

Bendigo is grappling with a dual emergency this week as Bendigo Health’s emergency department declared a Code Yellow internal emergency amid severe strain on hospital systems, while more than 11,000 properties across the region remain without power after severe weather events.

The Code Yellow alert, declared on July 8, triggered a hospital-wide response to manage high occupancy, leading to ambulance ramping and postponed elective surgeries, according to Bendigo Health officials. The declaration came as the emergency department struggled to cope with patient volumes, forcing staff to redirect resources.

Power Outages and SES Response

The State Emergency Service (SES) has been stretched thin, responding to approximately 60 call-outs in Bendigo alone during the peak of the storm system. Across the broader Central Victoria region, power restoration crews continue to work on reconnecting more than 11,000 affected homes and businesses. The outages have disrupted daily life, with residents relying on generators and emergency supplies in some suburban areas.

New Emergency Dashboard Launched

In response to the compounding crises, the City of Greater Bendigo has launched a new Emergency Dashboard on its website. The dashboard provides real-time warnings, road closure information, relief centre locations, and direct links to trusted sources such as VicEmergency and the SES. The tool aims to give residents a single point of access for critical updates during emergencies.

Alternatives for Non-Life-Threatening Care

Health officials are urging residents to consider alternatives to the overwhelmed emergency department for non-urgent medical needs. The Bendigo Urgent Care Clinic, open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, offers treatment for non-life-threatening conditions such as minor cuts, sprains, and infections. The hospital’s emergency department remains open 24 hours for genuine emergencies.

How to Stay Safe

In an emergency, residents are reminded to call Triple Zero (000). For flood or storm-related emergencies, the VIC SES hotline is 132 500, and the VicEmergency Hotline can be reached on 1800 226 226. The City of Greater Bendigo is advising everyone to monitor the new dashboard and stay informed via VicEmergency for the latest warnings and relief centre details.