Hospital Auxiliary’s ‘infectious’ generosity will be missed

From left, Auxiliary president Jean Whitney NGH General Manager Graham Wilkinson and SCHHS chief Executive Naomi Dwyer.

Nambour General Hospital hosted a ‘thank you’ event, to celebrate the hard work of the local Hospital Auxiliary, which ceased operations this year after more than three decades of service.

Made up of mostly volunteers, the auxiliary began in 1986, operating the hospital kiosk and gift shop. All proceeds from the non-profit organisation went  to purchase vital equipment and improve patient care.

The auxiliary has donated over $2 million in equipment to various hospital departments, made possible by the dedication of volunteers.

Some of the notable donations include $136,000 worth of renal dialysis machines, at least four ultrasound units worth more than $65,000 each and $100,000 worth of orthopaedic equipment.

An emotional Auxiliary president Jean Whitney says it had been a rewarding experience volunteering and helping others for a greater cause.

“The funds we have generated in the kiosk through volunteering has helped provide equipment for the hospital. This in turn allows the community to access better facilities and care,” Ms Whitney said.

“Many of the volunteers have been patients at the hospital at one time or another, so it’s nice to be able to give back to the healthcare workers who look after us.”

Along with kiosk, Auxiliary volunteers also ran the hospital’s gift shop, where cards, magazines, soft toys and even hand knitted items could be purchased for patients.

They also provided catering for Nambour General Hospital events.

Nambour General Hospital Director of Nursing and Facility Manager Graham Wilkinson said the hard working and friendly faces of Auxiliary staff and volunteers would be greatly missed.

“The work of the Auxiliary over many years, and the impact they have had on purchasing necessary equipment for the hospital, as well as the special connection they built with staff and patients has made a real difference to the hospital. We are greatly appreciative to Jean and her team,” Mr Wilkinson said.

Dr Jo Deverill paid tribute to the Auxiliary's baking skills, pointing out one coconut slice contained enough calories to get him through a 10-hour shift.

The Auxiliary ceased operations earlier this year, in part due to challenges posed by COVID- 19 restrictions.

“While we have ceased operations, the Auxiliary still has some giving left to do. We still have some funds in the bank and will use this to donate to Nambour General Hospital in the near future, as a final gift,” Ms Whitney said.

Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service’s Foundation Wishlist has taken on the operations of the hospital Kiosk and Gift Shop.