Ballina Family Medical Centre

24/07/2026

**Limited time only**
The program will now run until the 31st July 2026.

Our community is now eligible for free Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccination due to an increased risk in our area.

Japanese Encephalitis is a rare but potentially serious virus spread by mosquitoes.
Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and help reduce the risk in our community.

If you live, work, or spend time in eligible areas including Ballina, Lismore, Byron and Tweed, we strongly encourage you to consider getting vaccinated.

Contact our friendly reception staff to book your vaccination.
📞 02 6686 3299

Let’s work together to keep our community safe and protected.

**Limited time only**
The program will now run until the 31st July 2026.

Our community is now eligible for free Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccination due to an increased risk in our area.

Japanese Encephalitis is a rare but potentially serious virus spread by mosquitoes. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and help reduce the risk in our community.

If you live, work, or spend time in eligible areas including Ballina, Lismore, Byron and Tweed, we strongly encourage you to consider getting vaccinated.

Contact our friendly reception staff to book your vaccination.

📞 02 6686 3299

Let’s work together to keep our community safe and protected.

26/06/2026

Call 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422) for free from anywhere in Australia and connect with a registered nurse for expert health advice when you need it most. 📞

When you call 1800MEDICARE, a registered nurse can provide you with health information and help you find services in your area.

If you are injured or unwell, they will help you understand if your condition needs extra attention from a health service or if it can be managed safely at home.

You can also connect via the 1800MEDICARE website or app to get the help and information you need, in a way that works best for you.

1800MEDICARE is available to anyone in Australia whether it’s early in the morning or late at night and you don’t need a Medicare card.

For emergencies, always call Triple Zero (000).

For more information, see the comments below. 👇

21/06/2026

🌍💙 World Allergy Week 💙🌍

Allergies and anaphylaxis can be serious, with the right knowledge and preparation, lives can be saved.

This World Allergy Week, we’re raising awareness of how to recognise the signs of severe allergic reactions and the importance of having an up-to-date management plan.

⚠️ Know the signs of anaphylaxis:
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Swelling of the tongue or throat
• Hives or widespread rash
• Dizziness or collapse

🚨 In an emergency:
• Lay the person flat and keep them still unless breathing is difficult
• Administer an adrenaline immediately if available
• Call 000 for an ambulance

Having an allergy action plan and ensuring medications like EpiPens are in date can make all the difference.

Speak to your GP about allergy testing, management plans, and emergency preparation.

💙 Awareness saves lives.

📞 02 6686 3299

What to do in an emergency if you or someone you are with is showing signs of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis.

19/06/2026

💙 Men’s Health Week June 2026 💙

Looking after your health is important at every stage of life.

Small steps like booking a check-in with your GP, staying active, keeping connected with others, and accessing trusted advice can make a real difference to both your physical and mental wellbeing.

This Men’s Health Week, we encourage all men to take a moment to prioritise their health because looking after yourself helps you be there for the people who matter most.

If it’s been a while since your last check-up, book an appointment with your GP today.

📞 02 6686 3299

18/06/2026

📢 Has your child missed a School Vaccination?

If your child missed their school-based vaccinations, they can still catch up.

Please call our practice to book an appointment and discuss your child's vaccination needs.

Staying up to date with immunisations helps protect your child and our community.

📞 Contact us today to arrange a catch-up vaccination appointment.

📞 02 6686 3299

We know life gets busy and sometimes vaccination appointments can be missed.

If your child has missed a scheduled vaccination, you’re not alone and it’s not too late to catch up!

Missing a vaccine can leave your child without protection against serious diseases for longer than needed. The good news is that catch-up vaccines are available through the National Immunisation Program.

If you’re unsure what your child has missed, speak with your GP or vaccination provider. They can check your child’s record and help you get back on track. 🗓️

For more information, see the comments below. 👇

07/06/2026

💙 June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month 💙

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia, early detection is key.

It’s important to be aware of the warning signs and to see your GP if you notice any changes at any stage in life, including:
🔴 Blood in your poo
🔴 Changes in bowel habits
🔴 Unexplained weight loss
🔴 Ongoing tiredness or fatigue
🔴 A lump or swelling in your abdomen

If you have any concerns, book an appointment with your GP for assessment and advice.

✅ Did you know? Australians aged 45-74 years are eligible for a FREE bowel cancer screening test every two years through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
The simple at-home test can help detect bowel cancer before symptoms develop.

If you’re eligible and haven’t completed your screening test, now is a great time to do so, you can order your FREE test kit using the following link or phone the contact centre if you are unsure.
Link: https://www.ncsr.gov.au/bowel-program/manage-your-participation-in-the-bowel-program/request-a-free-bowel-test-kit
Phone: 1800 627 701

📞 Contact Ballina Family Medical Centre to book an appointment with your GP if you have concerns or would like to discuss bowel cancer screening.
02 6686 3299

05/06/2026

**Limited time only**
The program will now run until the 31st July 2026.

Our community is now eligible for free Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccination due to an increased risk in our area.

Japanese Encephalitis is a rare but potentially serious virus spread by mosquitoes. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and help reduce the risk in our community.

If you live, work, or spend time in eligible areas including Ballina, Lismore, Byron and Tweed, we strongly encourage you to consider getting vaccinated.

Contact our friendly reception staff to book your vaccination.

📞 02 6686 3299

Let’s work together to keep our community safe and protected.

28/05/2026

Protect your child against influenza this winter.

Children aged 2–17 years are now eligible for the FREE nasal spray flu vaccine in NSW.

A great option for children who dislike needles, it’s quick, gentle and needle free.

📞 Contact our reception team to book your child’s nasal spray flu vaccine appointment today
02 6686 3299

All young people from 2 to 17 years of age in NSW are now eligible for the free nasal spray flu vaccine.

Expanding eligibility aims to boost statewide vaccination rates and make it easier for families - especially those with children who dislike needles.

The nasal spray flu vaccine is gentle, painless and available for free for a limited time at GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services and pharmacies.

Influenza (flu) is serious but isn’t as scary if you’re vaccinated. A flu vaccine offers you and your child the best protection from serious illness.

Learn more: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/Influenza/Pages/families_and_individuals.aspx

Book your family’s flu vaccine today: www.healthdirect.gov.au/nswfluvaccine

26/05/2026

☀️ May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month ☀️

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, which is why regular skin checks are so important.

Early detection can make a big difference, and many skin cancers can be treated successfully when found early.

If you’ve noticed any new or changing spots, or it’s been a while since your last skin check, now is a great time to book an appointment.

Contact our reception team to arrange your skin check today
📞02 6686 3299

This May for Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, remember to protect your skin every day. Simple steps can help reduce your risk of melanoma.

Find out more about sun protection: https://melanomaresearch.com.au/about-melanoma/prevention/

21/05/2026

Making the decision to quit smoking is one of the best steps you can take for your health 🚭

The benefits can begin within days, with improvements continuing over time for your lungs, heart and overall wellbeing.

If you’ve been thinking about quitting, support is available, it’s never too late to quit.