Two devoted volunteers with a combined six decades of service were recognised at The Wesley Hospital’s National Volunteer Week morning tea on Monday, May 9.

Volunteers Cecily Walker and Ailsa Jones were both honoured for their unwavering service over the past 31 years. ​National Volunteer Week is a time when the Wesley gives back to the dedicated people who support the hospital staff, patients and community.

Clinical Nurse Manager Di Fichera told more than 100 people who attended the event the volunteer community was an essential part of the hospital, both for the volunteers and the staff and patients they supported.

“As volunteers, you are interwoven into the fabric of our community. We could not do what we do without you.”

Pat Clohessy, who offers his time alongside his wife, Moira, said he always looked forward to his days volunteering at the Wesley.

“The volunteers here are like a community. It gives us retired folk something to do during the week.”

Volunteer Manager Gary Pember said on average, The Wesley Volunteers provide 5,000 hours of voluntary service per month, from driving patients to and from their appointments to guiding visitors entering the hospital.

“Our volunteers are a special group of people from all ages and walks of life.   While their service and commitment to The Wesley Hospital often goes unrecognised, they are truly a dedicated team who deserve our appreciation for a job well done,” he said.

Pictured: Volunteers Cecily Walker (left) and Ailsa Jones, with The Wesley Hospital General Manager Ann Maguire.