General News
8 December, 2023
Large donation to Sunnyside wraps year well
SUNNYSIDE House has reflected on another year at a recent annual general meeting (AGM), honouring its dedicated staff and receiving a large donation from its op shop.
The AGM, held November 16, was an opportunity for board members to discuss the year’s events.
In what has been a very successful year for the Sunnyside House Op Shop, a cheque for $130,000 was donated to the aged care facility.
The donation will go towards improving and maintaining the Sunnyside House aged care facility.
Since 1951, Sunnyside House Op Shop has donated $2,188,000 to the aged care facility, and the efforts this year have not gone unnoticed.
“The op shop again donated an amazing amount of money to Sunnyside this year, and both Camperdown and Sunnyside itself is lucky to have them in our town supporting us all,” Sunnyside House chief executive officer (CEO) Bec Siemon said.
Sunnyside House Ladies’ Auxiliary president Dianne Hampson said there were three main factors in the donation amount.
“First and foremost, all our hardworking volunteers; well done to all of you, but especially our treasurer Jeanette Duncanson,” she said.
“Her daily efforts in balancing our takings, maintaining the books etc. is first rate.
“With our increased shop floor space, there is a significant increase of products for sale, hence stronger sales, including furniture and kitchen supplies.
“The new CEO of Sunnyside House Bec Siemon is a breath of fresh air and is so supportive of our efforts; she is a pleasure to work with.”
Ms Hampson said she has also noticed a more positive and greater input from the community in 2022 and 2023.
“More local people are coming through the shop, willing to donate various goods, and a small group of men are willing to pick up furniture items using their own trailers,”
Volunteers and staff were also honoured for their dedication, with a number of service awards handed out.
Jill Urquhart, along with an absent Jan Ellis, received a life governorship for their 10 years working with the Ladies’ Auxilary.
Ms Urquhart said she was taken by surprise by the recognition.
“It certainly was unexpected, and it’s been part of a way to give to the community for me,” she said.
“I appreciate this; it was unexpected, and it’s been a fun thing to do as well.
“To meet people in the community, because you do meet a lot of people through Sunnyside, and it’s a way of giving back to the community.”
For staff members of the aged care facility, certificates of appreciation were handed out at their workplace after the meeting.
Tracie Downie, Caitlin Savage, Markita Shrubb, Tonya Spokes and Wilma White were recognised for five years’ service.
Tanya Howards received a certificate for her 10 years’ work with Sunnyside House.
As part of the meeting, a new board member was elected, but positions remain available ahead of next year’s election.
Residents are encouraged to put their hand up to be part of the Sunnyside House board, or even just to volunteer at the op shop.
