This National Volunteer Week, Bass Coast Health (BCH) wishes to acknowledge the contribution of our valuable Volunteers.
Their extensive service, across many roles, helps our community to access public healthcare, both in Bass Coast and further afield.
BCH CEO Jan Child said the service of around 200 Volunteers was valued by BCH Board, Executive, staff and our consumers.
“From helping in reception, wayfinding and driving patients to appointments locally and as far as Melbourne, to gardening, visiting patients and aged care residents, it’s truly remarkable where you can find a Volunteer,” Ms Child said.
“They also help with administration and take part in our Community Advisory Committee, working with us to enhance our level of care. They always have a smile on their face while they’re contributing to your public health service.
“We’re also fortunate to have Volunteers across five Auxiliaries: Inverloch Art Show Auxiliary, Inverloch Fundraising Auxiliary, BCH Ladies Auxiliary, San Remo Opportunity Shop Auxiliary and the Phillip Island Health Hub Auxiliary. They hold fun-filled events, sort and sell goods, conduct raffles and do other amazing work to raise funds so we can buy medical equipment that benefits our patients.
“These are wonderful people, giving so freely of their time to help others. Individually they make a difference. Together they achieve so much.”
Wendy Martin volunteers in many ways – as a member of the BCH Ladies Auxiliary and also visiting patients at Wonthaggi Hospital.
“I like interacting with the patients and it’s nice for them to have someone to talk to about trivial stuff, rather than medical matters,” she said.
Phillip Island Health Hub Auxiliary President Lyn Wadeson said it was an honour to serve the community.
“The Auxiliary members are like-minded people who want to help the community by raising funds for extra equipment that makes the lives of patients and staff easier,” she said.
“As President I care for new members, and try and make meetings run smoothly but still allow for individual expression and ideas, as well as coffee and cake.
“We all pull together as a team and understand when people have commitments, family, travel and work. Basically it’s fun to volunteer and be part of something to help others.”
Joan Ray volunteers at the BCH San Remo Opportunity Shop to raise funds for BCH.
“The community is amazing because they know the money they spend here is going to a great cause,” she said.
Volunteer Michelle Wilson helps with administration tasks at Wonthaggi Hospital.
“I like volunteering because I like talking to different people and meeting different people, and I’m giving back to the community as well,” she said.
For more information, please contact the Volunteer Support Team on 5671 3372 or email Vicki Riley, Volunteer and Fundraising Manager, vicki.riley@basscoasthealth.org.au
You can also go to: https://www.basscoasthealth.org.au/volunteer