The Armidale Branch of the United Hospital Auxiliaries (UHA) has recently celebrated both generous community support and well-deserved recognition for their longstanding dedication to the Armidale and New England District Hospital.
The team behind the much-loved Ivy Café at the hospital has received a significant boost thanks to the Armidale Lions Club, who kindly stepped forward to fund the purchase of a much-needed new refrigerator. This generous donation will enable the café—operated entirely by UHA volunteers—to continue delivering high-quality, nourishing food to hospital visitors, patients, and staff.
Secretary for the Armidale Branch of UHA, Kay Pell, said, “A lot of people don’t realise that the kiosk is entirely run by volunteers, it’s very profitable and we’ve raised a lot of money for the hospital.”
“We’re so very grateful to the Armidale Lions Club for their support, I think a lot of their work goes unrecognised too – they’re a wonderful organisation and they’re always looking to support local causes.”
In 2024 alone, the Armidale UHA raised over $94,000, which was reinvested into vital equipment across multiple hospital departments—enhancing operational efficiency and patient care.
Operating five days a week from 8:30am to 2:30pm, the kiosk is an essential part of the hospital environment. The upgraded refrigeration will allow the team to expand their menu, particularly during the colder months, offering more heart-warming meal options. It also ensures improved storage of chilled and frozen items, helping the café continue its high standard of service.
“The kiosk provides the community a bit of a safe haven and a place that people can catch up and talk to family while they’re here undergoing treatments, especially considering that many patients travel quite some distance to visit the hospital,” said Ms Pell.
In a further celebration of their efforts, the Armidale UHA team was recently recognised as the 2025 New England Regional Volunteer Team Award recipients. The honour was presented by the Hon Brendan Moylan MP, Member for Northern Tablelands, who has also submitted a Community Recognition Statement to the NSW Legislative Assembly to formally acknowledge the team’s incredible service.
The Armidale Branch, made up of 132 committed volunteers, has operated the hospital kiosk since its opening in 1965. Their contribution goes beyond fundraising—these dedicated individuals turn up for scheduled shifts, fill in at short notice, and ensure the café remains a warm and welcoming presence in the hospital.
Outside of the Kiosk, UHA also raises much needed funds for the hospital by means of their annual Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Christmas raffles.
Ms Pell tells us they are always on the lookout for new volunteers.
“All you need is a friendly face,” said Ms Pell.
This dual celebration—of community generosity and tireless volunteer service—highlights the strength of the Armidale spirit. The UHA extends heartfelt thanks to the Armidale Lions Club for their support and to the wider community for their ongoing encouragement.
If you’re able to volunteer some of your time to assist the UHA team, you can enquire at the front office of the Armidale Hospital, or directly at the kiosk.
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