The doctors and surgeons were farewelled by Ballarat Health Services and St John of God Hospital staff at a Pipers by the Lake function on Thursday.

They include ophthalmologist Dr David McKnight (25 years service), ENT surgeon Mr Paul Donoghue (33 years), palliative care specialist Dr David Brumley (36 years), cardiologist Dr John Stickland (39 years), general surgeon Mr Peter Denton (35 years), physician and sleep specialist Dr Wayne Spring (31 years), plastic surgeon Mr Robert Sheen (21 years) and vascular surgeon Mr Robert Ventura (31 years).

However, Dr Spring and Mr Sheen will continue to see patients privately.

St John of God's medical services director Dr Ed Davis, who is retiring after 33 years as a medical administrator, was also honoured at the function. 

The doctors have served BHS and St John of God as either full-time staff specialists or part-time visiting medical officers.

BHS chief executive officer Andrew Rowe said the retiring physicians had given years of dedicated community service in many disciplines.

"The community of Ballarat, over many years, has benefited from the knowledge and dedication of these doctors," Mr Rowe said.

"Whilst it's sad to lose their experience and knowledge, we have a next generation of doctors ready to take their places and continue to provide Ballarat with the highest levels of service possible."

St John of God chief executive officer Michael Krieg said he was pleased to pay tribute to the retiring specialists.

"Their contribution to the Ballarat community remains vibrant and alive, due in no small way to the excellent health services they have made available in this city over many years," Mr Krieg said.

At the function, 19 new medical practitioners were also formally welcomed to Ballarat's health services.