Auxiliary continues commitment to aged care residents

The East Grampians Health Service Aged Care Auxiliary continued its commitment to enhancing the lifestyle of the residents of 70 Lowe Street and Garden View Court over the past year.

At the annual general meeting, Libby McCormick was returned as president with new members of the executive elected including vice president Marlene Goudie, secretary Robyn Whitford, treasurer Margaret Spong and assistant treasurer Lynne Wilson.

“Another Auxiliary year closes and we can look back with a sense of pride, commitment, fun and hard work,” Mrs McCormick said.

“To all the members, my thanks for the unquestioning support you have provided.”

Guest speaker at the AGM was Heather Fleming from the Willaura and District Quilters, who spoke about the many quilts produced over the years by this group, which have raised thousands of dollars for charities.

Fundraising events held by the Auxiliary over the past year have included the Christmas Fair and Carols at 70 Lowe Street, movie night at the Astor Cinema held in conjunction with the Grampians Ride to Remember, catering for the free lunchtime concerts at Ararat Performing Arts Centre and the Rotary District Training Assembly.

Through funds raised, the Auxiliary purchased a faux aquarium for 70 Lowe Street and a raised garden bed and CD player for Garden View Court.

Mrs McCormick said that not only does the Auxiliary raise funds for aged care, but also offers support in many other ways to residents.

Auxiliary members provided Christmas celebrations for 70 Lowe Street and Garden View Court residents, with a personal Christmas card for each resident and voucher for each facility to use to purchase plants, and at Easter each resident of both facilities received an Easter Egg.

The Auxiliary also paid for residents to attend the Orchard Luncheon at Willaura in May and on Mother’s Day all residents joined in celebrations and musical entertainment.

Members also volunteer in many other ways each week at the two aged care facilities.

“To all the members of the Auxiliary – you are like my favourite footy team – strong defenders of our principles, on the ball in the middle taking control and pushing us forward, and able to kick incredible goals to finish off the team’s great work,” Mrs McCormick said.

“Thank you all, this year has been a privilege.”