Steve Trainor was taken on a trial run to Yarrawonga recently and is pleased to be part of the program.
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NCN Health is preparing to launch its Community Transport Program, with the service expected to commence in June, and is inviting both volunteer drivers and community members in need of support to get involved.
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The program will support local residents, with a focus on dialysis patients, to access essential medical appointments outside the immediate area, such as in Shepparton, Yarrawonga and Kyabram.
Following a successful test drive of the program, NCN Health has established a growing pool of volunteers and a co-ordinated roster, bringing the initiative one step closer to rollout.
In November last year, NCN Health was awarded $255,000 to support planning for a new day-stay dialysis and same-day cancer care unit at NCN Health Cobram.
Alongside this, the health service received a one-off grant to provide two patient transport vehicles, enabling safe and comfortable travel to existing dialysis services.
The Community Transport Program is volunteer-driven and designed to complement existing transport options, helping to fill critical gaps for those who may otherwise struggle to attend regular appointments.
Steve Trainor and the new car.
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NCN Health volunteer co-ordinator Jacquie Hughes said the program was gaining strong momentum.
“We’ve now completed a test run and have a dedicated group of volunteers ready to go, which is incredibly exciting,” Ms Hughes said.
“We’re aiming to begin transporting patients from June, and we’d love to hear from anyone in the community who may need help getting to dialysis or other medical appointments.”
Ms Hughes said additional volunteers were still needed to ensure the program’s long-term success.
“Many hands make light work. Even a small time commitment can make a big difference to someone who needs to travel several times a week for treatment,” she said.
“Volunteering in this program is a practical and meaningful way to support people in your community during what can be a really challenging time.”
Initially, the program will support transport to dialysis services, with plans to expand if demand and volunteer capacity grow.
Program highlights:
• Volunteer driving opportunities Monday to Saturday, with morning and afternoon shifts
• Flexible commitment options: weekly, fortnightly, or monthly
• Structured program with clear schedules and volunteer support
• Transport available across Moira Shire, with broader regional discussions welcomed
Community members who need assistance accessing dialysis, or who know someone who would benefit from the service, are encouraged to get in touch.
To volunteer your time, inquire about accessing transport support or for more information, contact: NCN Health volunteer co-ordinator Jacquie Hughes at ncnvolunteers@ncnhealth.org.au or on 0408 828 99.
