Main funding purpose: Nursing Research Scholarships

The story so far

Founded in 2003, the LOFT Auxiliary supports the advancement of nursing at the RCH through the provision of a scholarship for exceptional nursing staff. It also raises funds for projects associated with paediatric nursing.

The Auxiliary consists of past and present nurses who have worked, trained or undertaken graduate or post graduate education at the RCH. The unique membership of the Auxiliary means that all the members are not only nurses, but they’ve contributed over many years to the hospital, and many have been leaders in the profession. LOFT raises funds through the sale of Auxiliary merchandise and giftware, as well as holding sausage sizzles and other social and community events.

In 2008, the Auxiliary began fundraising for the establishment of The Elizabeth Fearon Scholarship. Awarded annually from 2011, the scholarship supports nurses in clinical research with the aim of improving outcomes for patients.

The recent fundraising efforts of LOFT have resulted in the production of a book, Caring For Our Children: The History of Nursing, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, by Margaret McInnes. The book is a tribute to the nursing service of the hospital and proceeds from sales are used to support the Elizabeth Fearon Scholarship.

2023/2024 Auxiliary Report

LOFT was formed after WWI as a collegiate support group and to maintain a connection with the hospital. LOFT became an Auxiliary in 2003.
Our fundraising is directed towards an annual $8,000 scholarship for emerging nurse researchers. The scholarship is named in honour of a dedicated and long serving nurse, the late Elizabeth Fearon.
The year was successful, both socially and financially.
On May 20th, at our AGM and Reunion lunch we raised $5,043 from a raffle, silent auction, merchandise sales, and donations.
We also participated in two markets at the hospital and would like to thank the many members and friends who donated items for our stall. We also extend our grateful thanks to Lucia and team for their support.

Office bearers

President: Dianne Paul
Secretary: Amanda O’Brien
Treasurer: Margaret McPherson

Contact

Email
rchloftnurses@gmail.com

Mail
PO Box 7163 Hawthorn North 3122