Volunteers at the Heart of South Gippsland Hospital

South Gippsland Hospital (SGH) is calling on community members to join its dedicated volunteer team, while also celebrating the enormous contribution volunteers already make to patient care and community wellbeing.

Volunteers support the hospital in many ways — from spending time with patients on the ward, to helping people stay socially connected through community groups, maintaining welcoming gardens, assisting with food services, and ensuring accurate health information reaches the wider community.

Current volunteer roles include, but are not limited to, Ward Assist Volunteers who offer companionship and practical support to patients, Banksia Groups Assistants who support social connection for community members, Community Information Volunteers who keep brochures and noticeboards up to date and Gardening Volunteers who help maintain peaceful and welcoming outdoor spaces.

To recognise this vital contribution, SGH recently hosted a private celebration event for current volunteers, acknowledging the time, care, and commitment they bring to the health service every week.

CEO Paul Greenhalgh said volunteers were an integral part of the SGH community. “Our volunteers bring compassion, connection and calm into our service every day. Their contribution cannot be measured just in tasks completed, but in the comfort they provide to patients, families and staff. We are deeply grateful for the role they play, and we are proud to celebrate them,” Paul said.

Community members interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Annie Terese, Community Engagement Officer on telephone 03 5683 9777 to find a role that suits their interests, skills and availability.

Pictured is one of SGH’s 14 active volunteers, Cheryl Opie.