Since moving to Horsham from Geelong during the COVID-19 pandemic, Peter Anthony has been a regular volunteer at Grampians Health, driving patients and clients to appointments across the Wimmera and beyond.

Now, Mr Anthony is taking on a new challenge as Horsham’s first emergency department, ED, volunteer.

Grampians Health volunteer co-ordinator Kellie McMaster said Mr Anthony was working a few shifts each week to better understand how to develop his role.

“At this stage he is providing support to whoever needs it, including team members, patients and their families,” she said.

“He is making coffees and teas, serving up meals, helping with changing beds and any small job that is non-clinical and within his skillset.

“The eventual plan is for Peter to become a team leader for that role, so that when other volunteers start working there, he will be able to provide them guidance and support in the role.”

ED acting nurse unit manager Delilah Brennan said Mr Anthony was doing a wonderful job and fitting in well with the team.

Mr Anthony said he loved the change and found the ED environment fascinating.

“It’s only when you get in here that you see what an incredible job the team does,” he said. “I’ve really enjoyed it, but I also want to continue with the volunteer driving as well, because I enjoy that, too.”

Grampians Health chief people officer Claire Woods said Mr Anthony’s support was a wonderful example of building relationships to deliver the best outcomes.

She encouraged people interested in volunteering at Grampians Health to call 5381 9347 or email kellie.mcmaster@gh.org.au.

More information about volunteering at Grampians Health is available at website grampianshealth.org.au/volunteer.

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