West Moreton Health staff have joined community efforts to raise funds for those impacted by bushfires, raising close to $8,000 during a special “Wattle Week” campaign in January.

West Moreton Health Chief Executive Dr Kerrie Freeman said that with some areas of West Moreton suffering fires in late-2019, “it was a cause particularly close to our hearts”.

“Golden wattle is our national floral emblem and a symbol of unity. It germinates in heat, meaning it is one of the first things to come back after a bushfire, so it is resilient. It also helps stabilise the soil. That’s why we called our fundraising activities in January, Wattle Week”

West Moreton Health had a warm response from staff who undertook a range of fundraising efforts, through morning teas, barbecues, a “Fivers for the Fireys” appeal, fabric donations for joey pouches, sewathons, blood donations, raffles and ribbon selling.

Staff from across Ipswich and rural hospitals took part in fundraising events, bringing together clinical and operational areas. They chose to donate to a range of causes including the Koala Foundation, Red Cross, Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES), the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, RSPCA and rural fire services.

“West Moreton Health people are very close to the communities we serve and the enthusiasm and care our staff displayed epitomises our Caring Better Together vision,” said Dr Freeman.

CAPTION: West Moreton Health staff members Vicky Bates, Jason Deacon and Fiona Calabria were among many staff who took part in fundraising to support bushfire appeals.