Dhelkaya Health has extended the life of four surplus patient trolleys by donating them, with their mattresses, to Rotary’s Donations In Kind (DIK) Warehouse in Footscray. This generous contribution, made possible by support from Castlemaine Rotary Club and local business Lyal Eales Stores, will support healthcare services in developing countries and Australian communities in need.
The trolleys, originally purchased in 1998, have been gradually replaced at Dhelkaya Health over the past few years thanks to the support of previous Run the Maine fundraising events. The updated models are more ergonomic, improve staff safety, and meet current Occupational Health and Safety standards, especially in our surgical and endoscopy units.
“These older trolleys, while no longer fit for purpose in our hospital due to manual operation and safety considerations, are still in good working condition,” said Dhelkaya Health CEO, Sue Race. “Rather than retiring them to landfill, we’re proud to see them repurposed where they can continue to provide value.”
Australia’s healthcare system often upgrades equipment due to changes in medical procedures or improved technologies, long before the items are worn out. DIK, a Rotary Australia initiative, works to collect these surplus items and redistribute them to hospitals and health services overseas, where demand for such equipment is high. DIK also assists individuals in local communities who cannot afford medical aids and equipment.
This donation reflects Dhelkaya Health’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, community partnership, and global health equity.
