CGH Celebrates Volunteers

Central Gippsland Health (CGH) is celebrating the crucial role of its volunteers during National Volunteer Week ,19-25 May, 2025 with the theme ‘Connecting Communities’.

The health service has 90 active volunteers and 65 student volunteers, who are providing immense value every day by building a sense of community and strengthening relationships with patients and aged care residents.

CGH will be part of the Wellington Volunteer Expo at the Port of Sale on Thursday 22 May from 5.30-7.30pm where people can find out how to be part of this essential community support network. There will be activities for kids, inspiring speakers, prizes and much more.

CGH Chief Executive Officer, Mark Dykgraaf, said the service was “incredibly grateful” for the work and generosity of CGH volunteers in giving of their time to benefit the lives of others.

“They support us in providing the best possible care for our community,” Mr Dykgraaf said. “We appreciate the kindness they share and the difference they make every day in the lives of our staff, patients, clients, residents, and their families.”

CGH places a significant focus on supporting its “volunteer army” and has strengthened communication through the newsletters, emails and updated training. Community Networks and Volunteer Support Officer, Joanna Dua, said training for the aged care volunteers covered topics such as dementia, person-centred care and meaningful engagement.

“These initiatives enhance our commitment to upskilling and providing learning opportunities for our valued volunteers,” she said.

The updated training was a direct result of feedback from the volunteers and launched in February at Heyfield Hospital with great success.

As part of National Volunteer Week celebrations, CGH will be delivering aged care specific volunteer training at Stretton Park on 22 May and issuing volunteer pins and certificates of appreciation. Volunteers have also been invited to attend upcoming dementia essentials workshops with Dementia Australia.

The 65 student volunteers come from Sale Catholic College, Sale Specialist School and a new group of Duke of Edinburgh volunteers from Sale College. All students volunteer either weekly or fortnightly at Wilson Lodge and Stretton Park aged care facilities.

New student aged care volunteer training educates young people about residential aged care and the basics of working in a care service environment.

Mr Dykgraaf acknowledged the spirit of connection and the incredible impact volunteers have made in building inclusive and flourishing communities.

“During National Volunteers Week, we especially acknowledge the value and contribution of volunteers globally and particularly those who are part of our CGH community. We are incredibly grateful for their work and generosity in giving of their time to benefit the lives of others.”

For more information contact Lynne Smith on 0437 918 234.