VollieCare

27/11/2025

Yesterday VollieCare fired up the grill at Bunnings Marion for the iconic sausage sizzle — and what a day it was!
We chatted with so many wonderful people, served up heaps of snags, and even managed to squeeze in a free hearing test thanks to Hearing Australia who were onsite! 👂😄

A huge THANK YOU to our amazing volunteers who rolled up their sleeves and made the day such a success. We couldn’t do it without you! 💙

19/11/2025

🌟 VollieCare – Celebrating 50 Years! 🌟

Last Thursday, we proudly celebrated 50 years of exceptional volunteer service across the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network.

Our incredible volunteers are the heart of VollieCare — giving their time, energy and compassion to support patients, families and staff at Flinders Medical Centre, Noarlunga Hospital and the Repat Health Precinct. We simply couldn’t do what we do without them. 💙

A special acknowledgement to our milestone volunteers:
• 25+ years of service: Matthew Long, Sylvia Wolverson, Dorothea Isaacs, Rodney Senior, Rose Jones and Shirley Plaice
• 42 years of service: Myra Waddell

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to our former President, Karen King, who officially stepped down at our Annual General Meeting. Karen, your unwavering support, positivity and leadership over the years have shaped VollieCare into what it is today. And of course… we couldn’t let you go without an ode!

✨ A Little Ode to Karen ✨

For ten whole years our Karen’s been
A vollie queen, a helping machine.

Seven years president — hear the cheer!
She’s ruled with laughter, not with fear.

She’s bubbly, bright, a sparkling star,
Always lending a hand (or two!) near or far.

If something needs doing, she’s already there—
With a grin, a plan, and that “Karen flair.”

But now she’s stepping down from the throne,
Trading the presidency for a guide’s microphone.

“Less paperwork please!” she happily cried—
“Let someone else take that wild ride!”

So here’s to Karen — legend, leader, mate—
Your next chapter’s bound to be just as great.

And though you’re no longer boss of the crew,
We secretly know… nothing runs without you! 🎉✨

12/11/2025

🐾 Meet Malcolm & Elton — Our Pet Therapy Duo! 🐾

If you’ve spent any time around Flinders Medical Centre, you’ve probably seen these two friendly faces walking the corridors — Malcolm (human) and Elton (dog) — two of our incredible Pet Therapy volunteers. 💛

For those who might not know just how special Pet Therapy can be, we wanted to share some beautiful feedback from a staff member in the Margaret Tobin Centre about the impact Malcolm and Elton have had on both patients and staff:

“Dog therapy was the most popular activity in our group schedule. Almost every Wednesday, Malcolm and his gentle giant of a Golden Retriever, Elton, would visit us. Elton was the highlight of everyone’s week. He was able to not only coax tears of comfort and hope from people, but he dared them to smile and laugh.

I wish I could sit and write about the huge impact I saw in so many individuals here as a direct result of engagement with dog therapy, but I’ll save the pages. I will say, however, the impact Elton had on me! Working in our field, it can be tricky to see joy rather than just model it — but with Elton, I saw joy on his furry face and on every face that saw his.”

— Peer Specialist, Margaret Tobin Centre

Thank you, Malcolm (and of course Elton 🐶), for bringing so much warmth, joy, and comfort to those who need it most. 💕

11/11/2025

Noarlunga Hospital Community Open Day

On Sunday, 9 November, VollieCare was proud to take part in the Noarlunga Hospital Community Open Day. The event offered members of the public the chance to tour the newly completed 24-bed General Medicine Ward and 24-bed Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit.

Our much-loved kids’ activity bags were a hit, and our Pet Therapy dogs were busy doing what they do best — spreading smiles with plenty of pats and cuddles.

A heartfelt thank you to all our wonderful volunteers who helped make the day such a success!

06/11/2025

Volunteer Opportunity: Ward 18V (Flinders Medical Centre)

Do you enjoy a good chat and have a caring, empathetic nature? We’re looking for volunteers to join Ward 18V, a 30-bed inpatient unit supporting older people experiencing mental health challenges.

As a volunteer, you’ll bring comfort and connection through simple things — a friendly conversation, sharing a cuppa, or joining in on an activity. Every chat makes a difference. 💚

🕙 Shifts: Monday–Friday, 9.30am – 1pm and 2pm – 4.30pm
📍 Location: Flinders Medical Centre

We’re looking for someone empathetic and mature, with the confidence and life experience to connect easily with older adults — particularly those facing mental health challenges.

To apply click here:

https://app.betterimpact.com/Application?OrganizationGuid=8f150814-311a-4e6d-a18a-93a9b1297328&ApplicationFormNumber=1

Send a message to learn more

30/10/2025

As VollieCare celebrates its 50th Annual General Meeting, President Karen King reflects on her journey.

“After five incredible years, I’ll be stepping down as President. Who would have thought my time would include leading through a pandemic and the closure of our retail outlets? Despite the challenges, the VollieCare brand is stronger than ever, and I’m honoured to have been part of such an amazing volunteer service.

My volunteering journey began 10 years ago, joining the Board in 2017. I started in Maternity, later supported the Breast and Endocrine Unit for eight years, and have proudly led Information Sessions for new volunteers since 2017. I’m now a Guide—an invaluable role within our many volunteer services.

The role of President has been deeply rewarding, and I couldn’t have done it without the extraordinary support of the Board, Administration Team, and my fellow volunteers.”

❤️ Thank you, Karen, for your leadership, passion, and unwavering dedication to VollieCare and the community.

28/10/2025

Meet Barry and Carole – one of VollieCare’s wonderful husband-and-wife duos! 💙

Together, they’ve dedicated an incredible 26 years volunteering as Guides at Flinders Medical Centre.

As a young couple, Barry and Carole were always active in their children’s lives – coaching, chaperoning, officiating at Australian-standard sporting events, and serving on various school and club committees.

When they retired and found their nest empty, Barry discovered volunteering at FMC to be deeply rewarding — so much so that the years have flown by (once volunteering four days a week, now just Tuesdays!). Seeing how much joy it brought him, Carole joined in too — and 10 years later, she’s still part of the VollieCare family.

Thank you, Barry and Carole, for your years of dedication, teamwork, and the warmth you bring to patients, visitors, and staff every week. 💐

23/10/2025

🌿 Join Our Wellbeing Support Volunteer Team! 🌿

Are you someone who loves to brighten someone’s day? Our Wellbeing Support Volunteers make a real difference by providing comfort, companionship, and care to patients and their families in our Rehabilitation and Geriatric wards.

From sharing a friendly chat or cup of tea, to helping with gentle activities or simply being there to listen — every moment you give helps improve the emotional and mental well-being of others.

If you’re empathetic, caring, and passionate about supporting others, we’d love to welcome you to the team!

Various shifts available at Flinders Medical Centre, Noarlunga Hospital and the Repat Health Precinct.

To apply MyImpactPage - Application Form - VollieCare

22/10/2025

Our VollieCare Guides are friendly, knowledgeable points of contact whose role focuses on support, orientation, and reassurance.

They help patients, visitors, and families navigate the hospital, guiding them to clinics, wards, waiting areas, and other facilities.

In the past financial year alone, our Guides at Flinders Medical Centre escorted or directed approximately 53,400 visitors, demonstrating the vital role they play in enhancing the hospital experience.

Some of the ways our Guides support the hospital community include:
1. Information and Assistance
• Providing general information about hospital services and amenities
• Answering questions and clarifying directions

2. Comfort and Reassurance
• Offering a friendly presence to ease stress and anxiety for patients and visitors

3. Hospital Liaison
• Communicating with staff about patient or visitor needs, such as mobility assistance

Guides services are available at both Flinders Medical Centre and Noarlunga Hospital.

If you’re interested in becoming a Guide, you can apply online via https://app.betterimpact.com/Application?OrganizationGuid=8f150814-311a-4e6d-a18a-93a9b1297328&ApplicationFormNumber=1

21/10/2025

Marion has been at Flinders Medical Centre since the day that it opened almost 50 years ago in 1976.

Recently she celebrated another milestone as staff at FMC’s Women’s Health Clinic sang for her 90th birthday.

“They hired me for a three-month trial, but I said I’d be here forever,” she said, correctly.

Marion worked as Office Manager in FMC Intensive Care for 26 years until she retired to help an injured family member, but she kept ties working with Flinders staff groups.

It wasn’t long before she came back to Flinders as a volunteer with VollieCare.

“I love the work and I get satisfaction from sorting things out,” Marion said.

“I always look forward to Thursdays, when I come in.”

Acting Midwife Unit Manager Melissa said the Women’s Health Service was a better place thanks to Marion.

“We’re so grateful for all the work she does, sorting out all our photocopy, bringing smiles and sharing her expertise,” Melissa said.

“We don’t know what we’d do without her.”

Happy Birthday Marion and thank you!

19/10/2025

💛 Celebrating 42 Years of Service – Myra’s VollieCare Story 💛

Over 40 years ago, Myra watched Flinders Medical Centre being built across from her home. Little did she know, it would one day become her “second home.”

From helping in the children’s room and flower arranging to running the hospital coffee shop and now visiting patients for a friendly chat, Myra has done it all.

“I keep coming back because I enjoy helping others and seeing patients looking brighter after our chats. I meet such different and interesting people.” 🌼

Thank you, Myra, for 42 years of kindness, dedication, and heart. 💛

14/10/2025

Meet VollieCare Volunteer John Paul Hermano (JPH) – Bringing Music and Wellbeing to FMC Wards

VollieCare is delighted to welcome John Paul Hermano (JPH), who is combining his love of music with his commitment to community service to make a real difference across our wards at FMC.

Alongside his professional background, John Paul is a talented singer-songwriter, performing both solo and with his band JPH x The Dangerous Animals. His career highlights include festival performances, radio guest spots, and original releases that celebrate local culture. Most recently, he was nominated for the 2025 South Australian Music Awards (People’s Choice – Rock category).

With a repertoire that spans Top 40 hits, pop, and classic rock favourites, John Paul creates inclusive, uplifting performances designed to engage patients, staff, and visitors alike.

We’re thrilled to have John Paul sharing his music and energy with our community — brightening days and lifting spirits across the wards.

📩 To request John Paul to visit your ward, please contact Megan Hirst (Director of Operations, VollieCare) at megan.hirst@volliecare.org or call 8204 5284.