Nestled at the rear of Rural Northwest Health’s Hopetoun campus is the most delightful array of roses you could ever hope to see. Over 200 plants donated by RNH staff, residents and their families, through Hopetoun’s Hospital Auxiliary and orchestrated by Norelle Huf in loving memory of her daughter-in-law, these blooms bring joy to all.
But this is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the good deeds of 8 local ladies who make up this wonderful group. Each year they hold a Christmas raffle that funds the purchase of gifts for residents and have in the past mended clothes and supplied lovely fluffy towels, all for good will and love of their community. President Jean Webster first joined the group close to 50 years ago, “It’s a wonderful group to work together with. I’ve been on the Auxiliary since February 1974, we just love the hospital.” she enthused sincerely.
The group had its inaugural meeting on the 9th March 1943, when Mrs Crawthorn, wife of the bank manager, led the charge. “80 years of proud history and we mean for it to go on, but we need new volunteers. If anyone is interested they should get in touch with either myself (Noreen) or Jean Webster (president) through the hospital’s reception Ph: 03 5083 2000.” said Noreen Bellinger (treasurer/secretary)