Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park welcomes back life-saving bus

Published on 03 June 2025

The Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park will again host the Big Red Kidney Bus this winter, enabling kidney dialysis patients to enjoy a holiday along the stunning Great Ocean Road.

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is proud to host the bus for the fourth consecutive year at the Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park, from Monday 28 July to Saturday 23 August.

In 2025, 1 in 7 Australians (14.2% or nearly 2.7M people) were living with signs of kidney disease (ABS, 2025).

Many patients require dialysis three times a week, with sessions lasting several hours each—a demanding schedule that typically restricts travel opportunities.

The Big Red Kidney Bus concept originated more than 13 years ago when a dialysis patient and his family sought ways to receive treatment away from their local renal unit, allowing them greater freedom to travel.

Monash Health partners with Kidney Health Australia to provide dialysis nurses and renal technicians who deliver up to six dialysis sessions per day on the bus.

The program has now expanded to three Big Red Kidney buses that travel to popular holiday destinations across Victoria, NSW, and the Gold Coast.

To make a booking for the Big Red Kidney Bus, click here.

Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Accommodation Services Manager Brendan Parker said:

"Kidney Bus Australia and their nursing team fantastic work in caring for guests undergoing dialysis.

We're proud to help patients have a holiday without worrying about missing critical appointments.

It's about making sure that kidney dialysis patients can experience a special time with family and friends while also receiving essential treatment.

Most of us take holidays for granted, but for dialysis patients, travel can be extremely challenging.

Our guests are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to enjoy a break by the water while receiving their life-saving treatment in such a beautiful location."