News

Our Kerferd Unit in Wangaratta has received generous donations of a brand new massage chair and exercise equipment, supporting the unit’s recovery-oriented and trauma-informed approach to care.

The massage chair donation from ADRA Op Shop was initiated by Sheree Crothers, Peer Support Worker within Albury Wodonga Health’s Lived and Living Experience Workforce, after listening to feedback from both consumers and staff about what would help improve wellbeing during inpatient stays.

“Consumers had repeatedly asked for the reintroduction of a massage chair,” Sheree said. “We’d previously had one on the unit, but it unfortunately broke, and we’d seen firsthand how beneficial it was in helping people feel calmer, more regulated and grounded.”

Massage chairs provide deep proprioceptive input, which can help regulate the nervous system, reduce heightened stress responses and support emotional regulation. For many consumers, this form of sensory input is an effective distress-tolerance strategy that supports mindfulness and present-moment awareness.

In addition to emotional benefits, the massage chair supports physical relaxation and comfort, contributing to a calmer ward environment and improved engagement in therapeutic activities. It will be used as part of structured group sessions as well as individual regulation strategies.

Sheree said the donation reflects the strength of community partnerships in supporting mental health care.

“We’re incredibly grateful to ADRA Op Shop - not only for this donation, but for their ongoing support of Kerferd through previous donations of clothing, toiletries and sensory items. Their generosity makes a real and tangible difference to the people who access our service.”

Supporting recovery through movement

Kerferd also received a generous donation of exercise equipment, further supporting consumers’ wellbeing and recovery during their inpatient stay.

The equipment — a treadmill, elliptical trainer and exercise bike — was donated by Stacey Potter, with items supplied through Intersport Albury.

Physical activity is an evidence-based way to help reduce anxiety, depression, agitation and emotional dysregulation, while also supporting sleep and mood. The equipment allows consumers to maintain physical health, reduce deconditioning during admission and safely expend energy, while also offering a trauma-informed, non-verbal option for emotional regulation.

“Exercise can help build routine, motivation and confidence, support choice and autonomy, and encourage social connection — all contributing to a more therapeutic ward environment and supporting recovery,” said Sheree.

“These donations make a real difference to people during what can be a very difficult time,” said Kerferd Unit nurse unit manager, Jessica Johnson.

“Having access to simple, supportive resources like a massage chair and exercise equipment helps create a calmer environment and gives consumers practical ways to regulate, feel more settled and support their recovery while they’re with us.”

Albury Wodonga Health thanks ADRA Op Shop, Stacey and Intersport Albury for their generosity and support of mental health care at Kerferd.