Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Pizzas Bring Christmas Cheer

Staff at the Ayr Health & Hospital, were duly rewarded on Christmas eve, when long time business supporter, Wilmar, recognised the tireless work of all the staff and delivered 30 pizzas to say thanks.

Wilmar, an organisation involved in community outreach, has traditionally provided food for Ayr Hospital staff working over Christmas, with offerings ranging from barbecues to cupcakes. On the 20th of December, 2024, they switched to pizza due to a change in preference, which proved to be a masterstroke on account of all the wet weather.

Wilmar also supports the community by sponsoring events like brass concerts, funded by contributions from the business sector. The outreach is valued for fostering community connection, and the hospital staff appreciate the gesture as a token of recognition for their hard work throughout the year.

The relationship between Ayr Health and Wilmar has been long-standing, particularly during the Christmas season, as highlighted by the Director of Nursing, Tracey Gabiola.

“Every year we get contacted by Wilmar, and they're always willing to offer a little bit more Christmas spirit. While we've had cupcakes and various treats in the past, we decided to mix it up this year, which is quite appropriate, considering all this wet weather we’ve had,” Tracey expresses.

“All our staff will be delighted to have these pizzas today, while also feeling appreciated because of all the hard work that they do for the year in providing the service to our community. It's truly lovely. We all really appreciate it very much,” Tracey smiles.

Allan Cross, a Wilmar representative and Burdekin local, was delighted to show Wilmar’s gratitude to Ayr Health’s frontline workers and all their hospital staff.

“Today is the first time I’ve come to do this here at Ayr Health, and this year we've gone for 30 pizzas because they requested a change. But for all the hospital staff who work hard over Christmas, and indeed throughout the year, this is an acknowledgement of our appreciation for all their efforts,” Allan says.

“For me personally, it’s about connection to our community. It’s as simple as that,” he adds.

Peter Wood (Wilmar), Allan Cross (Wilmar) and his kids, Edith and Tim, Amanda Barney (Ayr Health admin), Dave Kearney (Ayr Health nurse), Ruth Smethurst (Wilmar), and Tegan Cesconetto (Ayr Health OSO). Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Allan Cross with Edith and Tim Cross, Ayr Health Director of Nursing, Tracey Gabiola, and 30 pizzas. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

In other news