Margaret Lamb, Dawn Jonas, Zelma McKie and Shirley Shoemark received their awards at the recent Hospital Auxiliary conference in Braidwood.

They are currently the longest serving members on Braidwood’s auxiliary.

The hospital changed a lot since each of the women joined the auxiliary.

Dawn Jonas recalls that when she joined the hospital had a fuel stove, and usually just 20 patients, mainly elderly and maternity.

Then as well as fundraising, the auxiliary would cook, knit and visit the sick.

She joined because it was a worthy cause, and over 40 years has always found it a valuable.

“It’s been very good,” Mrs Jonas said. “You have great workers that help you, and good friendship you have amongst one and other, and the people you meet and visit.”

Zelma Mackie’s mother had been in the auxiliary when she was young, so it was a natural step for her to join.

It wasn’t then like it is now though, Ms Mackie says. She remembers then the auxiliary used to make pajamas and the like for the hospital.

In her time, she has been both secretary and president of the auxiliary.

She sees the auxiliary as being of critical importance in supplying machines and equipment for the hospital.

The Hospital Auxiliary works to support the Braidwood Multipurose Service, fundraising to purchase equipment.

Auxiliaries provide a vital service to communities, last year raising over $10 million NSW-wide, says president Frank Judge.

“All the ladies in question have served in the executive, they’ve provided a lot of service to the Hospital Auxiliary,” he said.

Mr Judge was pleased with the outcome from the recent Regional Conference held in Braidwood, saying it was highly sucessful.