Retired farmer Audrey Merrett was the first person to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, while Wimmera Health Care Group infection control coordinator Rachel Baker was the first staff member.

The vaccination process was assisted by immunisation nurses from Ballarat Health Service.

Mrs Merrett, 93, said it was imperative to get vaccinated, and she was privileged to be first in line for her community.

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"I've always made sure I'm vaccinated for all the diseases and flus getting around throughout my lifetime," she said.

"I've always believed it's the right thing to do to make sure we are all safe."

Mrs Merrett farmed with her husband and family first at Lillimur in the state's far west, then Bordertown, SA and later at Harrow before retiring in Horsham in 1980.

"Throughout the years I've seen lots of vaccinations that are very important but this one is extremely important," she said.

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Ms Baker administered Mrs Merrett's COVID-19 dose while a team of WHCG immunisers vaccinated aged care residents in Kurrajong Lodge and Wimmera Nursing Home.

Following her vaccination, Ms Baker said it was important to be the first to receive the shot.

"When I volunteered to be the first team member to get the jab, it was really to show that as infection control coordinator, I have every confidence that this vaccination program will be very successful," Ms Baker said.

"I've been excited all day for it to happen. The experience was completely painless, just like a flu shot, and I feel fine now."

Ms Baker thanked the BHS team for working with WHCG to ensure the critical service's effective delivery.

As a sub hub for the vaccination rollout, WHCG's COVID immunisation team will help distribute to the vaccines across the Wimmera.

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