Twenty-five years of service, support and sacrifice was honoured at Gordonvale Hospital today with a special anniversary celebration for the local auxiliary.
With nine founding members in tow, the Gordonvale Memorial Hospital Auxiliary gathered together to share morning tea, and more than a few memories, with staff and community members.
Nurse Unit Manager Denise Edwards was on hand to congratulate the group.
“Without the efforts of these women, the Gordonvale Memorial Hospital would not have the proud and important history of providing such vital services to our community as it does today,” she said.
“It is an honour to share this important milestone with you all and I thank each and every one of you for what you have contributed over the past 25 years.”
Founding member and Auxiliary secretary Beryl Wilson worked as a nurse at the facility for many years.
“The then matron Robyn Greenfield spoke to the staff about what equipment the hospital needed,” she said.
“So she did a call to arms for interested volunteers to form the Auxiliary and the rest is history.”
Ms Wilson said there had been many highlights over the years with firm friendships established.
“There is no doubt that the sense of comradery and the bonds we have formed has kept us going through all the challenges and the changes,” she said.
“This is a tight knit community and the hospital has played a significant part in shaping this town, which is why it is so important we continue to show our support however we can.”
What started as a small lolly stall in 1990 eventually grew into regular fundraising events including an annual fashion parade and a community social night held at the hospital grounds.
“Most of the town would turn out to those Saturday night events,” Ms Wilson said.
“We would charge $10 each which included a hamburger and a chance to win $1000.”
It is estimated the group has contributed more than $500, 000 worth of equipment over the years including pressure relieving beds and mattresses, syringe drivers, a lounge suite, chair beds, recliner chairs and shower chairs just to name a few.
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Chief Executive Julie Hartley-Jones said the Auxiliary was a remarkable group.
“What they have contributed and achieved as a relatively small fundraising body is no mean feat,” she said.
“We are extremely grateful for their ongoing support and congratulate them on reaching this important milestone."
Foundation CEO Tony Franz, chairman Ken Chapman and board member Charlie Marino were also on hand for the celebration as the Auxiliary comes under the Foundation's banner.
