Ostomy Support Group committee members, left to right: Janet Kesby, Maria Emerton-Bell, Lynne Henry, Glennie McCartney, Wren Mathews, Neil Lang, and Quenton Henry.

A milestone for Hastings Macleay Ostomy Support Group

Aug 26, 2024

The Hastings Macleay Ostomy Support Group recently marked a remarkable milestone—their 25th anniversary—with a special celebration at the Port City Bowling Club. This milestone event was made possible in part by the generous support of the club’s travelling bowls group, which helped fund the day’s festivities.

The support group, established in August 1999, originally held its meetings at Port Macquarie Community Health until the COVID-19 pandemic forced a pause. However, it was the first local group to resume meetings, transitioning to outdoor gatherings after lockdowns were lifted, before eventually moving to their current venue at Port City Bowling Club.

The event was filled with nostalgia and appreciation as attendees looked back at the group’s history of supporting ostomates and their carers. The group has seen many members come and go over the years, and while some moved away or had their stomas reversed, the sense of community has remained strong.

One special guest at the event was Heather Hill, a renowned Stomal Therapy Nurse from the South Coast of NSW, who made the long trip via train to be part of the day.

Heather, a regular attendee of past meetings, gave a heartfelt speech: “I have been involved with many support groups across Australia and internationally, but this is the best support group there is.”

Maria Emerton Bell, the Clinical Nurse Consultant for Stomal Therapy in Hastings Macleay, has been with the group since its inception.

In her speech, she acknowledged the contributions of previous presidents, committee members, local surgeons, and guest speakers who have supported the group over the years. She also recognised past and present stomal therapy nurses and representatives from stoma companies who have provided ongoing education and resources.

Maria went on to highlight what makes this group truly unique.

“This group goes beyond the traditional definition of a support group. I’ve seen emotional and financial support, assistance with transport, social connections, and so much more. Whether it’s creating awareness displays at the local library, donating to stoma associations and nursing scholarships, or arranging shipments of excess products to countries like Papua New Guinea and Samoa, this group continuously finds ways to give back.”

The Hastings Macleay Ostomy Support Group is one of the longest-running support groups within the Mid North Coast Local Health District, and the longest-running ostomy support group in the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers regions.

Maria concluded with an inspiring message to the group: “Congratulations to you all. You’ve given and gained support for many people, helping each other through the challenges of ostomy surgery and recovery. Enjoy today’s celebration—filled with food, friendship, and a sense of pride for all you’ve accomplished.”

The event was a fitting tribute to a quarter-century of resilience, community, and care.