Hospital Auxiliary raise over $326,000

Members of the Calvary Mater Newcastle Auxiliary ‘Cancer Carers’ once again proved their ongoing commitment and loyalty to fundraising for Calvary Mater Newcastle by presenting the hospital with a cheque totaling $326,276.13 at their Annual General Meeting on 1 August 2019.

With 29 members ranging in age from 57 to 101, this dedicated group of men and women worked 46,285 hours throughout the 2018/19 financial year, equating to 1,596 hours of work and over $11,000 being raised per member. Funds were raised through a variety of activities. Donated crafts, including knitted items and teddies raised close to $50,000. Functions and bowls days were a huge success totalling almost $90,000, with the popular lolly tables bringing in over $63,000 and raffles fetching just over $17,000, to name but a few.

Mark Jeffrey, General Manager, Calvary Mater Newcastle, said, “The loyalty and dedication of our Auxiliary is inspiring. Members have worked long hours and thought of innovative ways to raise such a large amount of money. We are very grateful for their continued support.”

Over the past year, the Auxiliary has purchased hospital equipment and made donations to the hospital to the value of $225,315 with further equipment to the value of $87,000 on order. Elaine Wellard, Auxiliary President, said, “It’s an honour to be involved with an Auxiliary which has such a long and strong history in helping Calvary Mater Newcastle. We would like to thank the community and staff who support us and give generously each year enabling us to raise vital funds. Without their support, we couldn’t achieve what we do!”