Health Service honours Joan Salter for decades of volunteering at Rockingham Hospital

A volunteer’s quarter of a century service to her local hospital has been honoured.

Joan Salter received the Volunteer of the Year Award, from the South Metro Health Service, for 25 years of service, including 10 as the Rockingham General Hospital Auxilary president.

She was awarded for her “exceptional skills” and “integrity and compassion.”

Mrs Salter leads more than 200 volunteers and the management of the hospital cafe and gift shop.

Profits from the stores go back into the hospital, with millions funding medical equipment, refurbishment of multiple patient and visitor areas and scholarships for medical students and staffs.

Mrs Salter said the win acknowledged those who had served in the Auxiliary over the last 40 years.

“Witnessing the growth that we have achieved over this time makes me extremely proud of them,” she said.

Rockingham Peel group executive director Kath Smith said Mrs Salter’s win was well-deserved.

“The hospital is so proud of Joan and fellow finalist, president of the Friends of RGH, Anna Martin,” Ms Smith said.

“Joan and Anna are both wonderful women whose leadership of our outstanding volunteers provides an exceptional service to our patients, visitors and staff.”

Staff and volunteers across Fiona Stanley, Fremantle, Rockingham General and Murray District hospitals are eligible for the award.

Rockingham Hospital is currently looking for more volunteers.

To inquire about volunteering at the hospital visit rkpg.health.wa.gov.au.