Inaugural gala brings cheer and support for hospital
Maleny’s strong community spirit was on show when the Maleny Hospital Auxiliary held its inaugural Heart of the Hinterland Gala Dinner in support of the Soldiers Memorial Hospital.
The night brought together friends, supporters and local leaders for an evening of fundraising, food and goodwill, with proceeds to help buy four new hospital air mattresses and an ice machine, particularly for palliative care patients.
Auxiliary president Carole Lewis said the group had been nervous about how the first gala dinner would be received, but was delighted by the response.
“The Gala Dinner was a fabulous night, so much happiness, and community spirit,” she said.
“We were very nervous as to how the Gala would be received and we couldn’t be more pleased.”
Invited guests included Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace, Medical Superintendent Dr Nichole Harch and Director of Nursing Kerry Ramsay.
Guests were welcomed with a glass of Chandon before enjoying a tabled feast catered by Good2Eat, followed by desserts made by two women known to the Auxiliary.
Apex also played an important role on the night, with Andrew and his team donating their time to run the cash bar and support Auxiliary volunteers with a range of tasks.
Mayor Rosanna Natoli gave what organisers described as a rousing and enthusiastic speech before Dr Harch and Mrs Lewis took part in a Chair Chat segment focused on the hospital, the Auxiliary and fundraising.
The evening was hosted by MC Kim Kirkman, who also entertained guests with his Sunny Strings band, while auctioneer Graham Gardiner kept the room lively during the live auctions. Raffles were also well supported throughout the night.
Mrs Lewis thanked the community for its generosity and said the Auxiliary hoped to see supporters return next year.
• For more information, email president@malenyhospitalaux.org.au or phone Carole Lewis on 0414 373 734.
Hospital Nurses with Dr Nichole Harch & MHA President Carole Lewis.
Hospital Auxiliary members at the impressive flower wall.
The Gala Dinner included a Chair Chat segment with Medical Superintentant, Dr Nikki Harch & MHA President Carole Lewis.