Their commitment to the community is unparalleled
Inducted in 2015 for services to: Community, advocacy and inclusion; Health.
The dedication of the women who volunteer to support the Midlands Multi-Purpose Health Centre Auxiliary has been considerable.
In 1986, Dr Myrle Gray suggested setting up the Auxiliary to purchase equipment to aid patients, residents, medical and nursing staff. A torch for the night sister was the first purchase by the Auxiliary. Since then the Auxiliary has raised over $500 000 and purchased equipment including monitors for heart patients, crutches, urine analysers, vital signs monitors, bariatric bed and mattress, vein detectors, wheelchairs and patient lifters.
The main sources of fundraising for the Auxiliary have been through raffles, catering for funerals, sporting and car clubs, morning teas and bingo for residents. However, the true ingredient to the success of the Auxiliary has been the long-term selfless commitment of the volunteers who love the hospital.
Dr Gray has been the patron since 1986 along with four original Auxiliary members (Mrs Keitha Kean, Mrs Pat Knowles, Mrs Margaret Ball and Mrs Pat Thomas). Each was awarded Life Membership for 25 years of continuous service in May 2013.
The work of the Auxiliary is generously supported by the Southern Midlands community who values these quiet achievers and is prepared to give generously to the hospital, which they regard as a lifeline.