Nurse Unit Manager Mary Trotter and entertainer extraordinaire John Norton with the recliner that will be a much-welcomed comfort item for seriously ill patients and their loved ones, and testing out the air mattress, made possible by an earlier fundraiser hosted by John and attended by his lifestyle village neighbours.

Sparkles, glam, and community spirit raise $2,100

Nov 22, 2024

A Port Macquarie over-50s lifestyle village has once again proven its generosity, thanks to the incredible efforts of John Norton, aka Call Me Madam, and his band of hardworking helpers, affectionately known as the Busy Bees.

Two spectacular events – a Halloween Party and Melbourne Cup function – raised an impressive $2,100, which will fund an ergonomic recliner for palliative care patients at Wauchope District Memorial Hospital (WDMH).

The Melbourne Cup event, attended by 87 residents, featured an incredible grazing table prepared by Anne, while the live music of local band Chill Factor elevated the Halloween party. These latest efforts bring the total raised by the residents for Port Macquarie Base Hospital (PMBH) and WDMH to just over $20,000.

Palliative Care Nurse Unit Manager at WDMH, Mary Trotter, a guest at the Halloween party, said she was grateful for the compassion and support shown by John, the Busy Bees and the village’s residents.

“John’s compassion for people experiencing health hardships is truly remarkable. On behalf of our staff, patients, and their families, I want to sincerely thank John and everyone who supports his fundraisers. Their generosity makes a tangible difference, ensuring our patients and their loved ones are more comfortable during challenging times.”

Mr Norton also shared his gratitude.

“I couldn’t do this without the support of our amazing residents, my hardworking Busy Bees, and everyone who comes together for these events, including businesses who donate prizes, such as Hastings Physio’s Guy Terrelsen, Bunnings, Settlers Inn and Dan Murphy’s.

“A special thanks to Julie Easey for her $616 contribution, to musician Scott Wardell and Anne for her incredible grazing table at the Melbourne Cup event, and hats off to Chill Factor for providing the vibes at our Halloween party. You’ve all made a huge impact, and I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved together.”

The recliner, funded by the donation, will provide comfort for palliative care patients and allow family members to rest overnight alongside their loved ones—an invaluable gift during difficult times.