Far West HACC Volunteers Acknowledged at Hospital - Bench Seat Donated
The former Far West HACC has left a gift for residents accessing services at the Broken Hill Hospital in the form of a bench seat. The donation of the bench seat in the name of 'Far West HACC Services Inc' is to acknowledge the work done over many years by the volunteers of the organisation taking clients to and from the hospital.
'Far West HACC had been transporting clients to and from the hospital for 30 years and our volunteers go above and beyond,' said Marion Browne, Chair, Far West HACC Services Inc.
'We wanted to leave a legacy of Far West HACC and this bench seat is a fitting tribute so people don't forget Far West HACC was here. We are still delivering these services every day, but now under the banner as LiveBetter.'
The bench seat (made from recyclable plastic) bears a plaque commemorating the donation. It is located outside the Sub Acute Rehabilitation Unit in Thomas Street.
Raelene Kennewell has been volunteering with Far West HACC Services as the driver's offsider since 1991 - their longest continuous serving volunteer. Raelene also volunteers in the Hospital Kiosk.
'It's good and I still love doing it. We bring people here and pick them up and do the town run if people need to get somewhere or do their shopping, whatever,' she said.
Transporting patients and clients to and from the hospital is a valuable service and Ms Kennewell said the new bench seat will be appreciated by everyone.
Broken Hill Health Service General Manager, Melissa Welsh, thanked Far West HACC for its generous donation.
'The commitment and dedication of the volunteers who helped people attend the hospital for their appointments and treatment cannot be understated. They provide an essential service, particularly for people who do not have transport.
'We know that the seat will be a popular amenity to our clients and visitors to the hospital,' said Ms Welsh.