Special guests included Linda Swales, UHA of NSW president, Chris Smith, UHA south eastern regional representative, Kristy McBain, mayor of the Bega Valley Shire, Jenny Robb, guest speaker, Kelly Jurd, nurse manager of Pambula Hospital and Jenny Francis, volunteer co-ordinator of the Bega Valley Health Service for the SERH and Pambula Hospital.

Margo Ballantyne as the guest soloist started the conference off with Advance Australia Fair.

As president of the PDHA Branch, Shirley Rixon, chaired the full day's agenda procedures with Ms Smith.

Ms Swales addressed the conference by strongly pointing out the huge volume of auxiliary volunteers, generally senior citizens, that have raised substantial funds for essential and vital equipment at their own respective hospitals throughout NSW.

Besides issuing a strong message about volunteers Ms Swales supplied a great insight into the strength of the auxiliaries in NSW. The NSW UHA is one of the largest individual voluntary fundraising organisations for hospitals.

A special presentation saw Joyce Bennett, PDHA patron, receive her 20 year badge for her volunteer services which have directly benefited Pambula Hospital.

As guest speaker Ms Robb spoke about her creation of eco tours that include the Kiah Wilderness, Light to Light Walks and camping tours. With the support of a power point display her talk proved to be most informative and interesting on her tourism accomplishments.

Comments received after the conference from those attending praised the organisation and venue.

Generous sponsorship was given by the Wharf Restaurant, Excel Printing, Sassi Sussie and Merimbula Jewellers Trophies Engaving, all businesses from Merimbula.

The next meeting of the PDHA Branch will be held in the function room of the Pambula Hospital at 10am on Wednesday, April 24. New members are invited to participate in this vital community role.

Please contact Shirley Rixon, president PDHA, on 0456 196 891 for further enquiries.