THE dedicated volunteers of Tomaree Community Hospital Auxiliary have received a welcome boost through one of the highest accolades in the NSW hospital auxiliary network.
The auxiliary was surprised to receive the State President’s Award at this year’s NSW United Hospital Auxiliaries conference in Wollongong, recognising its ongoing commitment to supporting Tomaree Community Hospital and finding new ways to raise funds for essential equipment.
The award is only in its second year and could have been presented to any of the 161 hospital auxiliaries across NSW, making the recognition particularly special for the local group.
“We were very surprised to receive this award as there was no prior warning,” President Jayne Kilbride told News Of The Area.
“It means a lot to our auxiliary as it is recognition for the ongoing work we are doing to support our local hospital.
“I think it highlights our ongoing commitment and willingness to embrace changes and new ways to raise funds and increase our profile in the community.”
With 51 members, including some who have been involved for more than 20 years, the auxiliary continues to welcome new volunteers who bring fresh enthusiasm, ideas and energy.
The group believes supporting the local hospital benefits the entire community, particularly when health services are working with limited resources.
They believe that providing additional equipment helps both patients and staff, as it gives hospital teams access to resources that may otherwise be unavailable and makes it easier to deliver quality care.
This year’s state conference also provided an opportunity for members to connect with other auxiliaries, exchange ideas and learn from their experiences.
Hosted in Wollongong by the United Hospital Auxiliaries of NSW Central Executive Committee, the conference featured a gala dinner on the first evening, where Life Membership awards were presented by the NSW Governor, Margaret Beazley, the organisation’s patron.
A business day followed, featuring guest speakers and voting on resolutions to be presented to the Health Minister for consideration.
The auxiliary said the conference was a valuable opportunity to share knowledge and strengthen connections between groups working towards the same goal.
Its next major fundraising target is $60,000 to purchase six additional Ook Snow Beds for Tomaree Community Hospital.
Described as ‘smart beds’, they feature a digital display and a range of functions designed to improve patient safety, comfort and nursing efficiency.
Features include the ability to weigh patients while they remain in bed, adjustable positioning controlled by patients or staff, soft-closing cot sides, and extensions for taller patients.
Equipment purchases are guided by a wishlist developed by hospital staff and health facilities operating from the Health One building, with requests confirmed by the hospital manager or relevant department head.
The auxiliary is encouraging local businesses and residents to get behind its fundraising efforts, and offering several ways that people can contribute.
Businesses can donate vouchers for goods or services to be used in raffles, provide a donation box for their counter, or contribute profits from a fundraising event.
Individuals and businesses can also donate directly through the Auxiliary’s website, with tax receipts available.
Donations of craft items, fabric and wool are also welcome.
The group has recently introduced another fundraising initiative, offering hire of its collection of 100 sets of fine china, along with cake stands, teapots, sugar bowls and milk jugs for high teas and special events.
The collection is available for both small and large gatherings at home or at venues, at a reasonable hire rate.
With the State President’s Award providing fresh motivation, the volunteers are already looking ahead.
“Our auxiliary is energised now having received this award,” Jayne Kilbride said.
“It shows we are going well and committed to making 2027 bigger and better than last year. We are a happy and friendly group who work well together and have some fun along the way.”
New members are always welcome. For more information about supporting the Tomaree Community Hospital Auxiliary, making a donation or hiring its fine china collection, visit tcha.charity.
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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