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EMERGENCY

In an emergency, always call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. Ambulances are the safest way to be assessed, treated and transported to the right hospital for the care you need.

Triple zero (000) is a free call from any phone, mobile or phone box.

For less severe but still urgent situations, go to an Emergency Department.

There are 12 public hospital Emergency Departments in Northern NSW Local Health District and they are all available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Emergency departments are located at:

One of our valued Healthcare Helper volunteers, Jonathan Lawrence, at Lismore Base Hospital.
Published: 13 Jan 2025

Northern NSW Local Health District is encouraging the local community to kick off 2025 by becoming a Healthcare Helper volunteer.

Applications are now open for volunteer roles supporting patients, visitors and healthcare staff in facilities at Lismore, Nimbin, Bonalbo, Urbenville and Kyogle.

Lismore Base Hospital General Manager Ian Hatton said the hospital was seeking more volunteers to take on vital roles that comfort and support patients.  

“Volunteering is a fantastic New Year’s resolution because it helps others while enhancing your own wellbeing by helping you connect with people,” Mr Hatton said.

“As a Greet and Guide Healthcare Helper, you’ll welcome visitors and help them find their way around the hospital.

“As a Patient Companion helper, you’ll help make our patients’ stays in hospital more comfortable.”

Launched in late 2023, the Healthcare Helpers program has quickly become a valued service at Lismore Base Hospital.

“Our doctors, nurses and allied health staff deeply appreciate the support volunteers provide,” Mr Hatton said.

“We’re eager to welcome more people from diverse backgrounds so our volunteer team reflects the broader community, helping patients feel even more at ease.”

Volunteers are especially needed in the hospital’s acute stroke and dementia unit, and surgical wards.

Jonathan Lawrence, who started volunteering in 2024, said the experience was rewarding and flexible.

“I like being a volunteer as I get to meet a lot of people and feel part of the team,” Mr Lawrence said.

“The hours are flexible and I’m not tied down to a rigid schedule.”

One of the hospital’s newest volunteers Dorothy Thomas said she liked everything about being a Healthcare Helper.

“Every day is different and good, and it’s great seeing the amazing nursing staff all working together for the patients’ welfare,” Ms Thomas said.  

“It’s great being able to give something extra for patients who are all so resilient and brave, such as having a chat, listening to them sharing with me whatever they wish, reassuring anxious patients, making them a cuppa, giving them warm blanket if cold and even playing cards if I’m asked.

“It’s a pleasure and I get back more than I give.”

Apply to become a Healthcare Helper or find out more on the Northern NSW Local Health District website or send an email.