VollieCare

07/10/2026

Today is the last day to purchase tickets in the People’s First Community lottery and support VollieCare reach Our Fundraising Goal!

When you purchase a $2 ticket through the VollieCare Community Lottery page, every dollar from your ticket goes directly to supporting VollieCare and the vital work of our volunteers.

Get in quick https://www.communitylottery.com.au/products/volliecare if you want to be in with a chance to win

06/10/2026

❤️ 10 years of making a difference in Cancer Services ❤️

For the past 10 years, Bill, one of our wonderful VollieCare volunteers has been giving his time at Flinders Medical Centre — and he still thoroughly enjoys every minute of it.

Volunteering in Cancer Services isn’t about being medically trained. It’s about being there.

Sometimes it’s as simple as offering someone a cup of tea, coffee or a glass of water while they wait. Sometimes it’s providing an activity bag to help pass the time. And sometimes, it’s simply sitting down and having a chat with someone who may be spending several hours at the hospital on their own.

Over the years, he’s met people from all walks of life — from locals to visitors who have travelled from Darwin, and families supporting loved ones through their cancer journey.

One of the things he loves most is the conversations. You don’t need to know what to say about cancer, and you certainly don’t need to be an expert. A simple “Where are you from?” or “What did you do before you retired?” can be enough to start a conversation and make someone's day a little brighter.

And that’s the wonderful thing about volunteering — you never quite know who you’re going to meet or the difference a small gesture might make.

After 10 years, he says he gets just as much joy from volunteering as he hopes to give.

💙 Could you be that person for someone?

VollieCare volunteers play an important role in supporting patients, families and staff across our hospitals. Whether you have a few hours a week or simply want to give something back, there could be a place for you.

Come and volunteer with us — you might be surprised by how much you get back.

21/09/2026

From Helping People Find Their Voice to Driving Smiles Across the Repat

After retiring almost 13 years ago, John was looking for a meaningful way to give back. Having had a strong connection with the Repat throughout my business career, it felt like the perfect place to begin my volunteering journey.

My first role was with the Talkback Group, a program led by a Speech Pathologist for people living with aphasia following a stroke. My role is to help ensure every person in the group has the opportunity to communicate—whatever that looks like for them.

Communication isn't always about words, and it's incredibly rewarding to help people express themselves and be heard.

The best part? Watching the confidence of participants grow and seeing genuine friendships develop week after week. It's amazing to witness the positive impact these sessions have on people's lives.
Then in 2024, another exciting opportunity rolled in—and I happily jumped on board!

When Brownies Bus was introduced at the Repat, I signed up as one of the volunteer drivers. I love meeting new people and having a chat, so this role is a perfect fit. Every trip is different, and every passenger has a story.

Brownies Bus, operated by VollieCare, provides a convenient and flexible transport service for consumers, families and visitors around the Repat Health Precinct. We can also access areas that private vehicles can't, such as the Town Square, making it easier for people to get to appointments comfortably and stress-free.

One of my favourite parts of the role is taking passengers on our Repat History Tours. Whether it's patients, staff, visitors, or simply someone wanting a change of scenery, it's a wonderful way to share the rich history of this special place while enjoying a relaxing ride.

The bus is proudly named in memory of treasured WWII Veteran and long-time Repat supporter, Les Brown.

Brownies Bus operates Monday to Friday. If you or anyone you know would be interested in being a Brownies Bus Volunteer Driver and would like to know more, you can contact the VollieCare Office on 8204 3009.

27/08/2026

03/08/2026

Meet Wathma – Wellbeing Support Volunteer, Marjorie Tripp Ward

Wathma has been volunteering on the Marjorie Tripp Ward for the past year. The 20-bed ward cares for older patients experiencing geriatric syndromes and acute illness, providing specialised support during what can often be a challenging time.

"My day usually begins around 9.30 am when I check in with the ward staff to see which patients may benefit from some extra social and emotional support," Wathma explains.

Much of Wathma's time is spent in the ward's activity area, where patients have access to games, books and therapeutic activities.

After speaking with staff, she visits patients individually and invites them to join the activity room if they feel up to it. While some enjoy spending time with others in the activity area, others prefer to remain in their rooms.

"I always respect their choice and tailor my support to what they feel comfortable with."

Patients can enjoy a range of activities including colouring, jigsaw puzzles, board games or simply a friendly chat. Sometimes, companionship and conversation are exactly what someone needs.

When a new patient is admitted, Wathma often helps them complete a Sunflower Board, which highlights their interests, hobbies, family, likes and dislikes. Displayed above the patient's bed, the board helps staff get to know the person and supports more personalised, person-centred care.

Around midday, Wathma assists with preparing for the ward's Lunch Club, where patients can share a meal together in a welcoming environment that encourages conversation, connection and social interaction.

"I love being able to provide companionship and support during what can be a difficult time in people's lives. Whether we're chatting, listening to music, watching classic movies, colouring or playing games together, it's wonderful to see patients become more relaxed, engaged and comfortable."

For Wathma, the greatest reward comes from the smallest moments.

"When a patient smiles or simply says, 'Thank you for spending time with me,' it means so much. Those moments bring me so much joy and remind me why volunteering is so rewarding."

27/07/2026

Support VollieCare and Help Us Reach Our Fundraising Goal!

VollieCare is taking part in the People First Community Lottery, an exciting fundraising initiative that helps local sporting clubs, schools, charities, volunteer groups and other not-for-profit organisations across Australia raise much-needed funds.

When you purchase a $2 ticket through the VollieCare Community Lottery page, every dollar from your ticket goes directly to supporting VollieCare and the vital work of our volunteers.

Get in quick https://www.communitylottery.com.au/products/volliecare if you want to be in with a chance to win the early bird prize

24/07/2026

Meet Bev (left) and Trudi (right), two of our dedicated Emergency Department Volunteers.

Our Emergency Department (ED) Volunteers provide support to patients and their families during what is often a stressful and uncertain time. Sometimes that support is as simple as offering a listening ear, sitting with someone who is alone, comforting the family of a trauma patient experiencing grief and bereavement, taking a warm blanket to a patient in the waiting room, or passing on important information from families to clinical staff. These small acts of kindness can make a significant difference.

Bev has been volunteering with VollieCare for 25 years.

"I've always believed in giving back to the community. I lost my father when I was 11, and he was a wonderful role model who always helped others in meaningful ways. Volunteering has allowed me to continue his legacy by doing something that makes a real difference."

Trudi has been volunteering with VollieCare for 8 years.

"I had considered nursing many years ago, but life took me in a different direction. Volunteering in the Emergency Department has given me the opportunity to work in a hospital environment, which I feel very comfortable in."

Both Bev and Trudi agree that volunteering in the Emergency Department is a privilege and an incredibly rewarding experience.

"Every shift is different. We are fortunate to work alongside an incredible team of doctors, nurses and hospital staff whose dedication, professionalism and compassion inspire us every time we volunteer."

For Trudi, the support she receives from VollieCare has been just as meaningful as the role itself.

"VollieCare has always supported me while encouraging me to use my life skills where appropriate. I've also made wonderful new friends who share the same values and passion for helping others."

Bev hopes more people will consider becoming an ED Volunteer.

"You don't need a medical background to volunteer in the Emergency Department. If you have compassion, enjoy helping others and can spare some time each week, we'd love to hear from you."

As the Emergency Department is a specialised clinical environment, all volunteers receive comprehensive training, including 16 hours of role-specific education, to ensure they feel confident and well prepared before commencing.

22/07/2026

💙 Meet Kenna – Wellbeing Support Volunteer on Kokoda Ward💙
Originally from the Philippines and with a background in healthcare, Kenna has been volunteering with VollieCare for the past three months as a Wellbeing Support Volunteer.

In her role, Kenna spends time with patients by engaging in friendly conversations, listening, offering companionship and providing a comforting presence. These simple but meaningful interactions help improve patients' emotional wellbeing, confidence and sense of dignity during their hospital stay.

"My experience on Kokoda has been very positive. I've felt welcomed by the team and have had the opportunity to develop my skills while contributing to meaningful work. It's been a valuable learning experience, and I've really enjoyed being part of VollieCare."

Like many volunteers starting a new role, Kenna experienced a learning curve while getting to know the different needs of patients and hospital procedures. By asking questions, learning from colleagues and gaining experience, she has grown in confidence and become a valued member of the team.

Thank you, Kenna, for the kindness, compassion and support you provide to our patients every week. We are so grateful to have you as part of the VollieCare family.

20/07/2026

Meet the People Who Know the Hospital Better Than Google Maps!

Ever found yourself wandering the corridors of Flinders Medical Centre wondering if you accidentally ended up in another postcode? Our Volunteer Guides are here to save the day!

Whether it's helping patients, visitors or even the occasional staff member find their destination, our Guides are the friendly faces who keep everyone heading in the right direction. And because superheroes deserve to be seen, you'll notice they're now sporting their bright new uniforms, making them even easier to spot.

In the past 12 months alone, our incredible Guides escorted and directed an amazing 57,381 people through Flinders Medical Centre.

As for how many kilometres they've walked... let's just say if we counted the steps, we'd probably discover they've collectively walked to Melbourne and back (at least!).

📍 You can find our Volunteer Guides:

Flinders Medical Centre: Monday to Friday, 8.00 am – 4.00 pm
Noarlunga Hospital: Monday to Friday, 9.30 am – 3.30 pm

So, next time you're not quite sure where you're headed, keep an eye out for the bright orange vests. They'll point you in the right direction—with a smile!

05/07/2026

Support VollieCare and Help Us Reach Our Fundraising Goal!

VollieCare is taking part in the People First Community Lottery, an exciting fundraising initiative that helps local sporting clubs, schools, charities, volunteer groups and other not-for-profit organisations across Australia raise much-needed funds.

When you purchase a $2 ticket through the VollieCare Community Lottery page, every dollar from your ticket goes directly to supporting VollieCare and the vital work of our volunteers.

The People First Community Lottery has 41 prizes this year valued at over $300,000!
Early bird prize is a Toyota Corolla Hybrid Ascent Sport valued at $35,939.
1st Prize is a Toyota Kluger Hybrid GX AWD (RRP $67,451),
2nd Prize is a Toyota Yaris Hybrid (RRP $32,691) and
3rd prize is a 25 Day Northern Lights & Rhine River Cruise package (RRP $31,980).

Get in quick https://www.communitylottery.com.au/products/volliecare if you want to be in with a chance to win the early bird prize

Support local community groups in the People’s Choice Community Lottery. 100% of proceeds from every $2 ticket sold goes to your chosen group. Buy tickets!