September 2009

Box Hill Hospital volunteers win Caroline Chisholm awards

Nine Box Hill Hospital volunteers have won awards for their contribution to the community of the Federal electorate of Chisholm.

The awards were established eight years ago by MP Anna Burke and commemorate Caroline Chisholm, after whom the electorate was named.

Caroline Chisholm (1808–1877) is famous for her work with migrants and helped thousands find homes and jobs.

Box Hill Hospital volunteers who received the award were:

•           Denise Bennett, who has served as secretary for the hospital’s eight auxiliaries;

•           Terry Bennetts, who has provided clerical support to the Practice Development Unit;

•           Daphne Mansbridge, who provides support to patients and staff in ward three south;

•           Beverley Sidari, a volunteer with the occupational therapy department for 14 years;

•           Moya Slevision, who provides administrative support in the physiotherapy department and entertains sick children with games and conversation.

A team award was presented to the hospital’s EDcare team: Sally Fenton, Elizabeth Smith (convenors), Ainslee Walker and Annette Ward.

EDcare volunteers, organised by the Australian Red Cross, provide practical and emotional support for people attending emergency departments.

Eastern Health has more than 500 volunteers, who perform a range of operational and support roles.

Annually, they contribute about 80,000 volunteer hours to the organisation.