The newly-elected Coffs Harbour Pink Ladies’ committee Val Ide, Linda Friend, Helen Mears, Lorraine Partland, June Curry and Heather Hardwick.

Coffs Harbour Pink Ladies raise more than $274,000 for hospital

Aug 02, 2023

Coffs Harbour local Helen Mears OAM will continue as head of the Coffs Harbour branch of the United Hospital Auxiliary (UHA), a group she has led for more than 30 years.

Helen was reinstated unopposed as President at the UHA branch’s Annual General Meeting recently, thanking all the volunteers and committee members for their support.

“I would sincerely like to acknowledge and thank all the volunteers who show up and support our fundraising,” she said.

“We have 43 volunteers who work to keep the Pink Ladies Café and the giftshop open, which is our main source of fundraising.”

Despite the volunteer workforce challenges throughout the year, the committee raised a staggering $274,759.31 for equipment for Coffs Harbour Health Campus.

June Curry will continue in the role of Vice President, with Linda Friend agreeing to a second year as Treasurer.  

“I would like to thank Linda Friend following her first year in the role as Treasurer as well as Heather Hardwick as Secretary,” Mrs Mears said.

In her President’s report, Helen reflected on the recent visit from Governor General Margaret Beazley AC KC and her tour of the new renal unit. She also outlined some changes in the gift shop to encourage more patrons.

“We have also reopened the café in the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, which is going quite well, however more volunteers are needed to help this great cause,” she said. 

Anyone wanting to join this remarkable group of volunteers is encouraged to email: Sharon.Fuller1@health.nsw.gov.au