Library visits just became a little healthier, with free fruit now available at all four City of Greater Bendigo libraries, thanks to Bendigo Community Health Services (BCHS).
Visitors to Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat, Eaglehawk and Heathcote libraries can now enjoy a fresh piece of fruit, making it easier to choose a healthy snack while browsing, attending a program, studying, or simply enjoying time in the library.
The initiative builds on the successful pilot at Kangaroo Flat Library last year, and will run until November 2026, supporting people of all ages to take a simple first step towards healthier eating. Free fruit is also available in BCHS waiting rooms, Haven Home Safe, and neighbourhood houses across Bendigo.
Fruit will be delivered weekly by BCHS, with delivery days aligned to library opening days to help keep supplies fresh and stands well stocked.
• Mondays: Bendigo and Kangaroo Flat libraries
• Tuesdays: Heathcote Library
• Fridays: Eaglehawk Library
The program is supported by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing through the Community Food Relief Program – Local Grants, with funding supplemented by the BCHS Health Promotion team.
“Placing free fruit in spaces people already visit, like libraries, is a simple way to support good health across the community,” said BCHS spokesperson Tegan Hartley. “It helps make healthy choices easier and more accessible for people of all ages.”
Next time you visit your local library, feel free to grab a piece of fresh, delicious fruit from the stand. Fruit is available while supplies last.