It would be hard to find an organisation that exemplifies persistent commitment to the community more than the Queanbeyan Hospital Auxiliary.
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This year marked the 90th anniversary of the organisation dedicated to helping the people of Queanbeyan have the best medical facilities they can.
The Auxiliary came into being in 1927 with a concerted effort from local women wanting to assist the hospital, one of the most advanced at the time outside of Sydney.
Various fundraising efforts began, as well as general work such as sewing to assist the running of the hospital.
In one of the early years it is reported the Auxiliary produced an extraordinary 136 kilograms of jam to raise funds, something that continues today.
Ninety years later and the Auxiliary volunteers are 75 in number and as committed as ever to supporting the hospital. They achieve this primarily through operating the hospital kiosk.
During the last financial year the Auxiliary raised over $160,000 and the organisation donated over $135,000 to the Queanbeyan Hospital to purchase much needed equipment and facilities.
One of the volunteers, Ann Ellis, said it was very rewarding to see their work benefit the community.
“The money we raise goes exactly where we want it to, the hospital,” Ms Ellis said.
“Because I’m new to Queanbeyan I’m meeting people [through volunteering] which has been really great.”
Auxiliary Treasurer Lynda McIntosh said one of the main focuses of the group moving forward towards the Centenary was to attract younger members.
“The majority of our members are retirees so the main challenge for the organisation in coming years will be to continue to attract younger members who have the time, enthusiasm and energy to keep up our extensive range of fundraising activities.”