Winter extravaganza to raise money for hospital group

A CHRISTMAS-themed dinner will raise funds for new hospital equipment as part of a winter fundraising push by the Lismore Base Hospital Auxiliary.

Steelworks Eatery is hosting the Winter Wonderland Extravaganza at Lismore Heights Bowling Club on Saturday, June 21, with $10 from each ticket going to the auxiliary.

The three-course dinner is being organised by chef Dave Steel, with raffles and handmade crafts also on offer. Items made by auxiliary members are available year-round in the hospital’s gift shop.

Auxiliary secretary Rhonda Powell said the group had recently spent $40,000 to purchase a Cell Saver, a machine used during surgery to reduce the need for blood transfusions.

“It’s a good chance to get in front of people and explain what we do,” Ms Powell said.

“We recently purchased a low bed for the cancer ward, which allows people to get on the bed and lay with the patient.

“I think it’s great when we people see how valuable the equipment is and how it’s being used.

“Dave has gone to a lot of trouble to make this happen and he does a great job with fundraising.”

The auxiliary receives a wishlist from the hospital each year and works to prioritise the most urgent needs.

The group has about 40 members and is seeking extra support to help run the gift shop, which is a major source of fundraising.

“It’s a lot of hard work for a small band of women,” Ms Powell said.

“We did about $7000 last month and that’s with the gift shop only open a few days a week.

“Everything at our shop is home-made and we’re lucky that we have a lot of people that donate items for us to sell.”

Live music from the Cath Simes Band will feature on the night.

A second fundraiser, the Christmas with RuBella event, will also be held at the Lismore Heights Club on Sunday, June 22 to support the auxiliary.

Tickets for both events can be purchased at the club or by phoning 6624 3040.