The remarkable effort was acknowledged at the volunteers’ recent annual general meeting, where Deb Anderson was re-elected president for a third year. Also elected to executive positions for the 2016-17 year were Jenny Hicks as Secretary and Yvonne Thomas Treasurer.

Mrs Anderson said the funds raised by the volunteers were used to buy much-needed medical equipment, including two floatation mattress systems, a Hoverjack air patient lifter and shower trolley.

“Our donations have come from the monthly golf club raffle, our Christmas raffle, the Bellingen and Urunga street stalls and our Garden Fete at Gleniffer,” Mrs Anderson said.

“It’s been a very busy year – successful thanks to the hard work of our small band of volunteers.

“I am extremely proud of the efforts of our members and thank every one of them for their dedication and hard work in fundraising for the benefit of our hospital.

“In particular, huge thanks goes to Violet Preston for the mountain of work she did organising the fete and congratulations go to Margaret White and Yvonne Thomas in achieving 10 years’ service.”

The 2016-17 financial year has also started with a generous gift from the volunteers to the hospital. The Auxiliary presented two chairs to Hartley House (Medical Unit) to improve patient and visitor amenity on the verandah. The chairs cost $5922.

“Construction will start soon on the café under the new wing of the hospital,” Mrs Anderson said.

“Our aim is to run the café, using the profits to purchase equipment for our hospital. Our challenge will be in gaining new volunteers to help us but we are excited at the prospect of being able to provide an eagerly awaited service to staff, patients and visitors.

“Volunteers come from all walks of life - teachers, office workers, managers, retired professionals, mums and dads, and people who are still working.

“We would love to hear from anyone who can help us.”

The Mid North Coast Local Health District Chief Executive, Stewart Dowrick, said the volunteers were a valued partner in health care for the region.

“Our volunteers are an integral part of the health care team. Their hard work and dedication are greatly valued by our staff, patients and visitors,” Mr Dowrick said.

“But the volunteers’ contribution goes far beyond the equipment and hours they give. The kindness and compassion they show to patients is enormously appreciated and for that we also thank them.”

Men and women wanting to find out more about the Bellingen Hospital and Pink Auxiliary can contact Mrs Anderson on 0409 311 349.