Heather McCosker was 73 when she began volunteering and was humbled to receive the recognition. “It’s unbelievable,” she said. The “spritely and compassionate” volunteer provides patient and family support, massage therapy, participates in education and training and helps with fundraising.

She said she got great pleasure from the role and had met lots of lovely people. “I always wanted to be a nurse but money wasn’t available at the time. I just love looking after people.”

Mrs McCosker was recognised alongside Chris Logan and Damian Goss, while Lorraine Graham, Sharon Muldoon and Lynette Stammberger will be presented at a later date. 

Mr Goss, a palliative care volunteer for the past 17 years, goes above and beyond to support patients in hospital and at home.

Former board chair Chris Logan spent 13 years on the board, overseeing the commissioning and opening of the $115m stage 1 Warrnambool hospital redevelopment and held junior vice-president and deputy vice-chair roles.

Sharon Muldoon was SWH’s second female chair and undertook detailed planning to gain the necessary government funding to construct the new Warrnambool hospital, also holding junior and vice-president positions.

Lismore Ladies Auxiliary member of 29 years Lorraine Graham is the driving force behind some of the auxiliary’s largest fundraisers and Lynette Stammberger who has volunteered for 16 years will also be recognised.

Fellow auxiliary members Gwenda Shaw and Wendy Webster will receive appreciation certificates next week. 

SWH chief Craig Fraser said the recipients had made a huge contribution over many years. “It’s very selfless they give themselves at any time of the day or night to assist other people and our organisation to provide the care we do,” he said.