The combined efforts of the Murray to Moyne (M2M) fundraising group and the dedicated Birchip Auxiliary have significantly contributed to the positive environment at the Birchip Campus of East Wimmera Health Service. 

These two groups work hand in hand, with the funds they raise being combined and managed by the Birchip Auxiliary, also known as the Birchip Friends of East Wimmera Health Service. 

The funds they have jointly raised have been put to excellent use, purchasing essential equipment and amenities (identified by the local management team at the Birchip Campus) for both residents and staff.

Murray to Moyne 

The Murray to Moyne Ride from Echuca to Port Fairy is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday April 5 and 6  2025 which coincides with the first weekend of the football season. This has introduced some logistical challenges for the team, which they are currently working through but their training and fundraising efforts are in full swing.

Their major fundraiser, the online auction, will be conducted on their Murray to Moyne in conjunction with Birchip Hospital online Auction’ facebook site from April 4 to 11.

The M2M group has made an outstanding impact, raising just over $69,000 in the past six years, with a large portion of this coming from their online auctions. 

The committee is currently seeking donations for the auction, which could include anything from a holiday package, plants, homemade cooking or a cut up sheep, to gifts or a donation of time from a tradesperson. Anyone interested in contributing can contact Darren or Veronica Hogan, Kristy Knights, or Brooke Morris.

A Legacy of Generosity

The auxiliary’s purchases over the last five years include: Bain Marie for improving meal service efficiency, ECG Machine for enhancing diagnostic capabilities, furniture for the hair dressing salon for residents use, 15 Clocks for Aged Care Rooms, calendars for Aged Care Residents, a Podiatry Chair and Drill and an Australian Indigenous art piece which promotes inclusion in compliance with accreditation standards.

The outdoor area at the aged care residence has also been enhanced with money from the auxiliary and it now features an awning, barbecue and outdoor furniture which is well used by residence and their guests for social interaction and outdoor activities.

Accommodation

Accommodation for staff in EWHS facilities is always problematic, and the Birchip auxiliary has worked closely with management of EWHS to enhance the accommodation options available in Birchip to make it more enticing and homely for new or visiting staff.

Their funds have been used to purchase air conditioning and a television for the Nurses’ House and three beds, bedside tables, and linen for the renovations taking place at the Old Wirrim Lodge, which will see the Northern end of the facility converted into short term staffing accommodation.

Seek ’n’ See

Seek n See

Much of Birchip Auxiliary funds are raised in their opportunity shop, Seek n See, in the Old Shamrock Hotel in Cumming Avenue. Recently the Auxiliary used some of their funds to enhance the Op Shop and make it more appealing for shoppers. They purchased and installed new shelving, racks, lighting and signage and they have made a big difference to the ambience.

Community-Driven Impact

The contributions from both the M2M group and the Birchip Auxiliary have had a profound effect on the well-being of residents and the working conditions of staff at the Birchip Campus. The tireless efforts of volunteers, donors, and the entire community continue to drive improvements, making a tangible difference in the quality of healthcare and aged care services provided at the Birchip Campus of East Wimmera Health Service.

As the fundraising efforts continue, the generosity and commitment of these groups ensure that the Birchip Campus remains well-equipped and prepared to meet the needs of its residents and staff. Their impact is truly invaluable, and the community’s support remains essential in maintaining this positive momentum.

With continued support from the community, and through the dedication of their volunteers, the M2M team and the Birchip Auxiliary will ensure that vital resources and improvements keep benefiting the Birchip Campus of East Wimmera Health Service.