What began as a humble effort to help returned soldiers after World War II has blossomed into a powerful force for good in the Bacchus Marsh community.
In the early days, a group of determined local women would tow a caravan down the main street to sell goods and raise money for the new hospital. That caravan eventually gave way to a tiny shop behind Foodworks, where trestle tables out front helped make up for the lack of space. Today, the Auxiliary operates from their well-known shop at 11 Gell Street, just off Main Street—still driven by the same commitment to care.
Auxiliary President Sarah Tollis joined the group six years ago after moving to Bacchus Marsh and spotting a sign in the shop window. Having just retired from a high-powered career overseeing IT operations for a global organisation, Sarah wanted to keep busy and give back. She began as secretary, and now leads a team of 41 dedicated volunteers.
Over the past year alone, the Auxiliary has contributed more than $160,000 toward health and community projects, including:
$20,000 to support surgical robot technology at Western Health, giving patients access to world-leading care,
$40,000 for a community transport vehicle to and from the Hospital,
$20,000 toward new beds for overnighting fathers in the Bacchus Marsh maternity ward,
$5,000 to purchase and hand-wrap toys for children spending Christmas in hospital.
“That was fun! I’m pretty sure there would have been some happy kids at Christmas time,” says Sarah.
Their generosity extends beyond the hospital walls though. The Auxiliary also supports local organisations such as Pastor Jenny’s program Soul Food, which provides hot meals for the elderly and vulnerable, helps children access sports when finances are a barrier, and assists women escaping domestic violence. They’ve even helped fund vital equipment for the SES and fire brigade.
“We’ve got some really dedicated ladies who give of themselves,” Sarah says. “Our shop is open every weekday and Saturday morning. They do a great job. They’re a great team of angels— they really are.”
Thank you to the wonderful Bacchus Marsh Ladies’ Auxiliary for your work, generosity and dedication to giving back to the community.