National Volunteer Week celebrates the power of volunteering to bring people together, with this year’s theme ‘Connecting Communities’, acknowledging the spirit of connection and the incredible impact volunteers have in building inclusive and thriving communities.
The Health Service was excited to celebrate our volunteers through several events across the Wide Bay.
On the Fraser Coast our volunteers were treated to a morning tea cruise generously sponsored by the hospital Auxiliaries, the Hervey Bay Boat Club, and Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service.
It brought together volunteers across our hospital and community out on the water with delicious treats, and well-deserved recognition.
In Bundaberg, Partners in Care Together Foundation volunteers celebrated with a fabulous lunch held at Brothers Sports Club thanks to Ergon Energy.
The volunteers were joined by special guests Bundaberg Mayor Helen Blackburn, and Bundaberg Councillors Tracey McPhee and Carmen McEneany, as well as Harrison Titmarsh from Domino’s who had gift bags of goodies for everyone.
Foundation Manager Belinda Nunn revealed the yarn bomb of the Bundaberg West water tower, which celebrated all of the community’s volunteers and demonstrated the week’s theme.
Every Partners in Care Together volunteer received a thank you certificate and 2025 volunteer lapel pin as a gesture of gratitude for their incredible contribution.
Volunteers are the quiet heroes of our health service, and these events are an opportunity to say a heartfelt 'Thank You!'
From our Hospital Auxiliary members and Foundation volunteers, who tirelessly raise funds for Wishlist items and medical equipment, to our Spiritual Carers, JPs, Red Cross and hospital volunteers providing patient companionship and support through a variety of different roles.
Each of our volunteers play an important part in creating a more compassionate and connected healthcare environment.
Our volunteers support patients in areas such as Renal, Cancer Care, Rehab, Supportive Therapies, the Emergency Department and other hospital wards, offering not just their time, but their care and empathy.
They are a vital part of our patient experience, bringing comfort and connection during what can often be challenging times.
Beyond our hospital walls, community volunteers also make a huge impact, generously donating patient items such as blankets, shawls, teddies, personal care and diversional therapy items, and many other resources that help brighten the days of our patients.
Their unwavering support reflects the very essence of this year’s National Volunteer Week theme: ‘Connecting Communities’.
These celebrations are not only a token of appreciation but also a reminder of the incredible power of giving.