Main funding purpose: Area of greatest need

The story so far

Giving has always been a big part of the Lewis family’s life. Growing up, Lyn Lewis, along with her sister Janet, would collect money for the RCH on street corners and by door-knocking. Together, they ordered collection tins from the Good Friday Appeal, recruited their friends from school and raised funds as a group called Croydon Guys and Girls. So, when Janet sadly passed away, the family decided to honour her with the formation of the Absent Friends Auxiliary to continue her giving legacy.

Over the years the Auxiliary has raised funds through regular sausage sizzles, as well as stalls at local markets and at the RCH. Members of the Auxiliary would also make Tenckhoff bags for babies going home on dialysis. Through the years, the Auxiliary has enjoyed the support of several local businesses, including the Bendigo Bank. The Mackie and Lewis families who comprise the Auxiliary are now spread between Hamilton in the Western District and Wodonga in the Northeast of the state.

They raise funds at their various businesses including the Hamilton Lakeside Motel, Stagecoach Motel in Wodonga and the Obsidian Room in Hamilton. In 2019 Lyn, the founding and ongoing President, was recognised for her contribution to giving at the RCH, receiving a Living Treasure Award.

2022/2023 Auxiliary Report

Absent Friends Auxiliary was so pleased to be able to contribute to the Equipment to Deliver Great Care Everywhere grant this year and purchase a Slit Lamp for the Ophthalmology Department. Being a family run Auxiliary has presented challenges over the past few years however, we are refocusing and are hoping to expand our efforts in the coming years.

Office bearers

President and Secretary: Lyn Lewis
Vice President: John Lewis

Contact

Lyn Lewis

Phone
0421 082 431

Email
[email protected]