CEO Lois O’Callaghan announced this week Bendigo UFS Pharmacies was celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2023 with events and promotions over the next few months. 

Bendigo UFS was founded in 1872 on the principles of early lodges, foundations and friendly societies by men who had emigrated to Australia and wanted to connect with others with similar interests. 

This included financial support during sickness or unemployment, or help with bereavement expenses. Despite its origins in the conservative 1880’s, Bendigo UFS has been at the forefront of innovation in the pharmacy space, establishing Bendigo’s first 24/7 pharmacy and the region’s first drive-through dispensary in 2005 with script drop offs. 

Service to the community has always been the business mission. Being a not-for-profit has allowed Bendigo UFS to be innovative and a little bit brave in trying to find the best way to meet the needs of our customers, Ms O’Callaghan said. 

“Most of the early Bendigo UFS members worked in the goldfields and many fortunes were made, but there were also times of extreme hardship during war times and global health epidemics that the business was able to help people with. 

“We are very proud to be one of the dew not-for-profit community pharmacies that still exists. 

“Bendigo UFS has some exciting projects underway to continue our community investment and all staff are looking forward to continuing this working in our milestone,” Ms O’Callaghan added.

She made special mention of members and customers, thank them for their continued trust.