Wimmera Health Care Group's highest honour was presented to Lea Crammond, Graeme Hardman, Allison Roberts and Denise Queale at a ceremony by the health service's leading executive Catherine Morely.

The new life governors receive their certificates at a small luncheon opened by retiring board chair and now Grampians Health board member Marie Aitken. Ms Aitken thanked the four recipients and retiring board member Merryn Eagle chronicled each individual's contributions.

Mrs Eagle said the life governorship awards had shone a light on the valuable volunteer work the community made in support of the health service.

"It is work that is greatly appreciated by the whole of the Wimmera Health Care Group organisation and we hope that this excellent work continues into the future," she said.

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Mrs Crammond became president of the Wimmera Hospice Care Auxiliary in 2011, when the group was in fear of folding.

The auxiliary has raised money to provide equipment for people palliating at home, and has contributed $25,000 each year towards hire charges for palliative patients.

During her time as president, the auxiliary has grown from five members to 23, and Mrs Crammond was very proud of the support her auxiliary provides.

Mr Hardman was a founding trustee with the Wimmera Health Care Group Foundation when it was established in 1989.

The retired solicitor was appointed chairman in 2017 following the passing of Don Johns.

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A true professional and a steady and dependable leader, Graeme's extensive experience in governance and all things related to the foundation was an invaluable support.

Mrs Roberts helped establish the fundraising arm of the foundation called Friends of the Foundation in 2011.

She was immediately appointed as coordinator and works with an active, enthusiastic and committed group of volunteers. Through the foundation, she has raised around $300,000.

Mrs Queale was also an active member of the Friends of the Foundation, and also president of the Wimmera Health Care Group Ladies Auxiliary.

The auxiliary fundraise to purchase life-saving equipment for the Wimmera Health Care Group, and donate $70,000 each year.

Mrs Queale worked for the Wimmera Health Care Group for 27 years and joined the auxiliary upon retirement in 2011. She has been president for the past three years.

The decision to award the four life governors was to be one of the final duties performed by the retiring Wimmera Health Care Group board of directors.

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