The Mercy Health Foundation’s annual Mother’s Day Fundraising Lunch at Lancemore Mansion became a poignant celebration of community and legacy, with the unveiling of a portrait honouring the late Dr T Janardhana Rao – a trailblazing bariatric surgeon and pillar of Victoria’s Indian-Australian community.
The painting, revealed by Dr Rao’s wife and son Harish Rao, will be permanently displayed at Werribee Mercy Hospital, commemorating his 24 years as Honorary Consul General of India and his lifelong dedication to philanthropy.
A Legacy of Service
Dr Rao, who passed away in August 2024 aged 86, migrated from Chennai in 1968 when “there were not even 100 Indian families in Victoria”, Harish Rao told attendees. A pioneer of obesity surgery, he developed the gastric band technique and was recognised by both the Royal Australian and American Colleges of Surgeons.
Beyond medicine, Dr Rao served as a community leader, raising hundreds of thousands for underprivileged groups and education, including a $400,000 family bursary at the University of Melbourne supporting 40 international students.
“My father believed charity is not just about giving money. It’s about uplifting others, creating opportunities and making long-lasting change,” Harish said, praising Mercy Health for the tribute.
Maternity Hub to Bridge Cultural Gaps
The lunch also launched fundraising for Wyndham’s first Community Maternity Hub, modelled on Queensland’s successful decentralised care model. Werribee Mercy Hospital’s Director of Maternity Services, Dr Jacqueline Van Dam, said the hub would address stark health disparities faced by Indian-born mothers, who experience higher rates of gestational diabetes, preterm births and anaemia.
“Pregnant women don’t need hospital care – they need accessible, culturally safe support,” said Dr Van Dam, noting language barriers and logistical challenges often deter antenatal visits. The hub will operate in local shopping centres, allowing mothers to combine appointments with school drop-offs and groceries.
Leaders Rally Support
The event brought together Victorian MPs Kat Theophanous (Women’s Health) and Iwan Walters (Multicultural Affairs), Wyndham Mayor Mia Shaw, and Indian community leaders. An Indian classical dance performance underscored the focus on culturally inclusive healthcare.
Mercy Health Foundation hopes the initiative will improve outcomes for Wyndham’s fast-growing Indian community, now the municipality’s largest migrant group.
Donations to the Community Maternity Hub can be made via Mercy Health Foundation.
