Getting closer: Rochester and Elmore District Health Service chief executive Karen Laing (left) receives the cheque from REDHS Auxiliary president Maureen Leahy. Also pictured is secretary Dorothy Mitchell and treasurer Kath Bubb.
Photo by
Steve Huntley
Rochester and Elmore District Health Service Auxiliary is fast approaching two significant milestones.
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Formed in August 1983, the group is in its 40th year of operation and has a fundraising goal within sight, as it nears $200,000 in donations.
Thirteen members and friends of the Auxiliary came together at REDHS on Tuesday for afternoon tea and to hand over their latest contribution, a cheque for $4000.
REDHS chief executive Karen Laing accepted the cheque and expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the Auxiliary’s service over four decades.
“We never cease to be amazed by the passion and longevity of this remarkable group of ladies,” she said.
“Their latest donation helps kick-start our newest fundraising campaign for an electric rickshaw-type Triobike, which will enable aged care residents to be cycled around Rochester for social outings.
“The Triobike Taxis cost $15,000 and we have identified this as a key fundraising initiative for the coming 12 months,” Ms Laing said.
She explained that a similar bike was in operation in Kerang, which residents seemed to love.
Getting behind the hospital: Auxiliary members gather to hand over a $4000 cheque to go towards Rochester and Elmore District Health Service’s fundraising campaign. (From left) Maureen Leahy, Kath Bubb, Lyn Hyden, Jan Browning, Elva Christie, Annette Briggs, Norma Major, Faye Latter, Dorothy Mitchell, Gwen Macague, Ruth Else, Lynda Marshall and Merle Carr.
Photo by
Steve Huntley
The gathering included 92-year-old Merle Carr, who hosted the group’s first meeting at her home and has been involved ever since, and Kath Bubb who was celebrating her 91st birthday.
These ladies are not the Auxiliary’s most senior supporters.
That honour goes to inaugural member Nell Lees, who remains active and turns 96 within the week.
The Auxiliary’s donations have enabled the purchase of specialist medical and rehabilitation equipment, as well as items to enhance the resident and patient experience such as furniture and televisions.
“The ladies have put so much time, energy and enthusiasm into their fundraising and we continue to be enormously grateful for their support,” Ms Laing said.
“Just last week they hosted a very successful debutante ball and we look forward to receiving the proceeds of this event in due course.”
Ms Laing said the generous support of the Auxiliary had not gone unnoticed.
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