Shelley awarded for 25 years of volunteer service

East Grampians Health Service has recognised the work and support of its 150 volunteers at the 21st Volunteer Service Recognition Awards, including an incredible 25 years of service by Shelley Green.

At the awards, nine volunteers were recognised for five, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years.

EGHS has 150 volunteers who work across a range of areas including 70 Lowe Street, Garden View Court, Meals on Wheels, Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay, Patricia Hinchey Centre, Red Cross, consumers on EGHS committees, and four auxiliaries, the Ark Toy and Activity Library, EGHS Auxiliary, Residents’ Support Group and the Willaura Health Care Auxiliary.

Shelley Green has volunteered with the EGHS Auxiliary for 25 years and said being part of the Auxiliary had been a truly rewarding experience.

“What began as a commitment to supporting our local health service has grown into wonderful friendships, shared experiences and a strong sense of community,” she said.

“From dinners and regional lunches to catering, film nights and many other activities, the EGHS Auxiliary has provided countless opportunities to come together, have fun and make a meaningful contribution.

“It has been wonderful to see the community continue to support our efforts and to raise funds that help make patients’ time at the service a little more comfortable.

“I feel very fortunate to have been part of such a caring and dedicated group, and to have played a part in supporting such an important local service.”

EGHS Board Director Megan Shea congratulated Shelley and all the volunteers for their long and dedicated service to the health service.

“Without your support, friendship, fundraising and care for our patients, residents and consumers, East Grampians Health Service wouldn’t be the place it is today,” she said.

“We are grateful for the time and dedication you give the many areas across the health service that you work in.”

A twenty-year service award was presented to Alana Foster from the EGHS Auxiliary, 15 year service awards to Robyn Sleep and Robyn Clelland from the Ark Toy and Activity Library, a 10 year service award to Cathy McAdie from the Patricia Hinchey Centre, and five year service awards to Bob Sanders, Patricia Hinchey Centre and Meals on Wheels, Erin Thomas, Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay, and Heather Steedman and Meri White from the Residents’ Support Group.

Guest speaker at the awards was Ararat Women’s Shed founder Rowena Murray, who spoke about the formation of the Women’s Shed, volunteering and how to attract and retain volunteers.

The event was emceed by Volunteer Coordinator Hannah Jennings and attended by EGHS Board, executive, staff and volunteers and hosted by EGHS Board Director Megan Shea, with awards presented by Board Director Martina Holland.

EGHS chief executive Nick Bush also paid tribute to the many volunteers who work across many different areas of the health service.

“Our extraordinary volunteers are an integral part of our EGHS community, and we are here to celebrate their outstanding efforts,” Mr Bush said.

“They provide comfort and care to those in need, and this does not go unnoticed. They have become part of the fabric of East Grampians Health Service.

“Congratulations to all our long service award recipients.”