Patients and visitors needing assistance to make their way around Mackay Base Hospital have received a helping hand from the local Freemasons.
Hamilton Calen Masonic Lodge and Hand Heart Pocket the Charity of Freemasons Queensland recently donated two new wheelchairs towards the Hospital’s resources. These will be stationed at the Information Desk for patients and visitors to use within the Hospital.
Valley Freemason and Hospital volunteer David Willans said responding to community need is part of what it means to be a Freemason.
“We Freemasons like to provide practical support. The 182,000 strong population of our region rely on this hospital. It’s our pleasure to have helped the Mackay Hospital Foundation to purchase this essential equipment – we know it will be put to good use,” David said.
“The Information Desk is manned by a team of volunteers who also look after the booking of the wheelchairs each day.”
Hand Heart Pocket Chief Executive Officer Gary Mark said helping those with limited mobility to maintain their independence resonated with the organisation’s values.
“Our work revolves around empowering people to lead more independent lives,” Gary said.
“Together, Hamilton Calen Masonic Lodge and Hand Heart Pocket have been able to make a bigger difference at a grassroots level,” he said.
Photo: Valley Freemason and Hospital volunteer David Willans, Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager T’aire Olsen and Hamilton Calen Masonic Lodge representative Rob Roles.