Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) held its annual Volunteer Celebration event on Tuesday, to celebrate and recognise the invaluable contributions of its dedicated volunteers. Hosted at Wangaratta Racecourse Oaks Room, the afternoon brought together volunteers to enjoy a special High Tea, acknowledging their tireless efforts in supporting the community and enhancing patient care.
CEO Libby Fifis, who opened the event, expressed her deep gratitude for the volunteers, highlighting the important role they play in fostering a compassionate and caring environment at Northeast Health. She shared key organisational achievements from the past year, such as the installation of a new whole-body MRI machine and the introduction of robotic-arm assisted surgery, emphasising how volunteer efforts have supported these milestones.
“Your dedication and kindness are what make Northeast Health Wangaratta such a special place,” Libby said. “Whether you’re welcoming visitors, assisting patients, or delivering meals, your contributions create a lasting positive impact.”
NHW Deputy Board Chair Matthew Joyce echoed these sentiments, thanking the volunteers on behalf of the Board and acknowledging their role in the organisation’s continued success. He noted that the strength of Northeast Health’s community is built on the generosity and commitment of its volunteers.
A significant part of the afternoon was dedicated to recognising volunteer milestones, celebrating those who have given years of service. Valerie Bussell and Florence Walker were honoured for 25 years of service, with Val being a stalwart of the Meals on Wheels program, delivering meals in all weather conditions, and Florence, a long-standing palliative care volunteer. Other recognitions included Janet Martin, Dean Saunders, and Ruth Shalders for 15 years of service; Martin Ronald for 10 years of service; and Lorraine Godfrey, Amanda Greene, Kerry Hill, Linda Hughes, James Lynette, Mary McCalman, Justin Timms, and Sally Wohlers for five years of service.
Libby Fifis also took a moment to thank the VCAL students from Galen College for hosting the event and for their excellent hospitality, recognising their contributions to the day’s success.
“Our volunteers are integral to the care we provide and the sense of community we cultivate,” Libby said in closing. “We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated team, and today is about celebrating you.”
The event was a fitting tribute to the volunteers, whose ongoing dedication remains at the heart of Northeast Health Wangaratta’s mission to provide high-quality care to the community.