Volunteers needed at Townsville Palliative Care Centre

When the melodic sound of piano drifts through the halls of the Townsville Palliative Care Centre you know volunteer Tony Hallo is in session on the keys.

The retiree has volunteered at the centre since it opened, playing beautiful music each Friday for patients, their loved ones, and staff.

Townsville Hospital and Health Service is searching for compassionate volunteers, like Tony, to support patients and their loved ones during their time in the centre.

Palliative care volunteers provide support and contribute to activities in the unit that that allows better patient outcomes at the end of life.

Mr Hallo said his time volunteering at the centre gave him the chance to share the gift of music with people.

“I truly believe that music speaks to something inside each of us without needing words,” he said.

“Music touches the heart and does things medical science can’t explain with its harmony and melody.

“The people I’ve met and the moments we have shared can be difficult some days but I find such gratitude in this.”

Mr Hallo’s message to prospective volunteers is simple.

“If you’re suitable and have the right makings for a volunteer, you would be a fool not to sign up.”

Townsville Hospital and Health Service palliative care director Claus Bader said volunteers played an important role for patients.

“By assisting with non-medical tasks volunteers provide companionship to patients and ease the burden on caregivers during what can be a very isolating and challenging time,” he said.

“Simply engaging patients in activities like reading, playing board games, or other hobbies contributes to a sense of normalcy and enjoyment despite their illness.

“Volunteers, like Tony, help maintaining genuine human connection and by sharing his talent and empathy with our patients he’s made a profound difference in many lives.”

Volunteer coordinator Jolene Brabon said volunteers could be involved directly with patients or in a non-direct role and that all volunteers had specialised training about how to work in a palliative care setting.

“You might offer a friendly smile and a chat, serve morning tea, support staff as they provide patients and their loved one's memory making opportunities, or spend some time chatting with a patient while giving them a manicure,” she said.

Other volunteer opportunities include facilitating arts and craft, sausage sizzles, playing music, fundraising, gardening, and general assistance around the unit. Volunteers also support special functions held for patients like Melbourne Cup events or remembrance evenings.

If you’re interested in volunteering or would like to find out more contact us: Phone: 4433 4262 or email: THHS-PalliativeCareVolunteers@health.qld.gov.au