The Physiotherapy Department at East Grampians Health Service (EGHS) has been gifted with new equipment due to a generous donation from the Freemasons Foundation and United Ararat Lodge 935. The donation, amounting to $5640, has enabled the purchase of two ear oximeters, a pulse oximeter, blood pressure cuff, a treadmill, rowing machine, and both recumbent and upright stationary bikes. These additions will be used in exercise classes at the EGHS Community Health Centre.
The Physiotherapy Department plays a crucial role in helping the Ararat community and its surrounding areas stay physically active. It offers one-on-one consultations and rehabilitation exercise groups for individuals dealing with heart or lung conditions, cancer, chronic pain, diabetes, acute injury, and other chronic diseases.
The new equipment will enhance the department’s capacity to conduct exercise classes and improve the experience for community members dealing with chronic diseases or injuries. The donation was initiated by a member of a pulmonary rehabilitation class who suggested that the exercise physiology staff reach out to the Freemasons for assistance.
United Ararat Lodge was more than happy to assist the Physiotherapy Department at the Community Health Centre. They collaborated with EGHS exercise physiologist Sam Padarcic to finalize the grant application to the Freemasons Foundation.
Sarah Woodburn, EGHS Director of Community Services, expressed gratitude for the contributions from the Freemasons Foundation and United Ararat Lodge 935. She stated that the new equipment would enhance the delivery of their pulmonary class and other exercise rehabilitation services offered to the local Ararat community and its surrounding areas.
A special morning tea was organized to acknowledge the donation of the new gym equipment. It was attended by Chairman of the Freemasons Foundation Rodney Lavin, members of the United Ararat Lodge 935, and EGHS staff. Nick Busg, East Grampians Health Service Chief Executive, praised the United Ararat Lodge for their continued support of EGHS, which has included funding scholarships for staff upskilling, equipment for the dialysis department, and upgrades to the Garden View Court pergola.
Sources: araratadvertiser.com.au
