Honouring 96 Years of Service: Nhill Hospital Auxiliary Farewells with Final Donation

West Wimmera Health Service proudly acknowledges the remarkable legacy of the Nhill Hospital Auxiliary, following the group’s final donation after 96 years of continuous service to Nhill Hospital and the broader community. Established in 1929, the Nhill Hospital Ladies Auxiliary has long been a quiet yet powerful force behind the

hospital, supporting patient care through tireless fundraising, volunteerism, and community connection. Their history is documented by local historian Jan Doust, who writes about the Auxiliary in Chapter 10 of The Nhill Hospital; First 100 Years; 1882–1982, noting the group’s early role in strengthening both hospital services and social cohesion during challenging times.

A Legacy of Service

The Auxiliary’s first meeting, held in August 1929, took the form of a “cup and saucer afternoon”—a carefully observed ritual of afternoon tea served in fine China. At a time of significant financial hardship, this tradition provided dignity, connection, and quiet comfort for the community. In a fitting bookend to this tradition, the final gathering between the Nhill Hospital Auxiliary and West Wimmera Health Service was marked by a shared

afternoon tea, honouring nearly a century of dedication and generosity. With 96 years of uninterrupted service, the Nhill Hospital Auxiliary stands among the longest-serving volunteer groups in the region—an extraordinary reflection of commitment, resilience, and community spirit.

Contributions to Healthcare

Across generations, the Auxiliary has played a vital role in enhancing patient comfort and care, funding essential equipment, furnishings, and facility improvements. Their contributions have supported services across urgent care, allied health, and aged care, aligning with the hospital’s mission to provide comprehensive, compassionate healthcare close to home. The Auxiliary’s final donation will fund the purchase of a patient sling for Iona Nursing Home in Nhill, ensuring their legacy continues to directly support patient wellbeing. Over the decades, funds were raised through morning teas, raffles, card afternoons, luncheons, catering at football matches, markets, hospital events, and more. Creative initiatives included garden parties, friendly competitions, sewing sessions for ward provisions, and collections of goods—such as eggs donated by local school students. These efforts reflect the strong tradition of hospital auxiliaries worldwide, where community-led fundraising delivers tangible improvements to healthcare

Volunteer Dedication

Members collectively contributed thousands of volunteer hours, often serving across decades. Particular recognition was given to Mrs Barbara Dufty, long-standing secretary and treasurer, whose service and dedication were acknowledged fondly by fellow members.

The Auxiliary’s work has always reflected a shared ethos of care—for patients, staff, and the wider community.

Community Impact

Beyond financial contributions, the Nhill Hospital Auxiliary fostered social connection, generosity, and resilience during both prosperous and difficult times. Their support helped sustain Nhill Hospital—now West Wimmera Health Service—as a cornerstone of health and wellbeing in the Wimmera region. Their story stands as a powerful example of how volunteer groups can sustain rural health services and strengthen community bonds.

West Wimmera Health Service extends its deepest gratitude to the Nhill Hospital Auxiliary and all past and present members for their extraordinary contribution. Their legacy of care will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Pictured are some of the ladies with Executive Directors Cheree Schneider and Janette Lakin

If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Kelley O'Connell on 5391 4222 or email at corporate@wwhs.net.au.