Steeped in the history of the Wonthaggi Hospital, the Bass Coast Health Ladies’ Auxiliary (the Ladies Auxiliary) continues to garner community interest in and support for health services today.
The Auxiliary’s recent gift to Bass Coast Health of a Signature Quilt reflects the Ladies’ 110 year tradition and the future of our health services.
The Ladies’ Auxiliary does not shy away from an ambitious project and the members certainly delivered, garnering support from 207 donors and local organisations, each lovingly represented as part of the Signature Quilt that now hangs on the walls at the Wonthaggi Hospital.
The Signature Quilt has multiple embroidered names each representing donors to Bass Coast Health cancer services. The tradition of creating Signature Quilts dates back to the 19th century; the Ladies Signature Quilt will leave a lasting legacy.
“The Signature Quilt tells a story that we want all of our staff, patients and community to learn about. We are so grateful to the Ladies’ Auxiliary for their extraordinary efforts and to each and every one of the donors that made this possible,” said Jan Child, CEO Bass Coast Health.
“The $14,000 raised by the Ladies Auxiliary is incredibly important as it helps us to purchase essential equipment needed for cancer services, now delivered through the L. Rigby Centre. More than the money raised, every name on this beautiful quilt signifies support for our patients, staff and our services; an uplifting daily reminder that inspires our care for patients with cancer,” Ms Child said.
“Our team sees the difference our local cancer care can make for our community, every day. We are so grateful to the Ladies Auxiliary and the 207 community donors for their contribution to this service,“ said Anna Kenny, Nurse Unit Manager of the L. Rigby Centre, Bass Coast Health.
“The Auxiliary was thrilled with the community response to this project. Our members have worked on this project for the past two years. While COVID impacted its progress we are excited that the Signature Quilt is now complete for everyone to enjoy,” said Marlene Talbot, Treasurer of the Ladies Auxiliary.