News

Consumers receiving care at Albury Wodonga Health’s Nolan House mental health facility are benefiting from a generous $27,000 community donation from the Wodonga Squash & Racquetball Club.

Funds raised through the club’s 24-Hour Squash and Racquetball Rally Marathon last May have supported a range of therapeutic programs and improvements to the Nolan House environment, helping create a more engaging and supportive space for people receiving acute mental health care.

The funding has enabled the purchase of equipment that supports everyday life skills and creative programs on the ward, including cooking equipment for group cooking sessions, art supplies for therapeutic art activities, and sensory supports designed to promote calm and wellbeing.

One of the most visible outcomes of the project is a vibrant new courtyard mural, developed by Chiltern-based artist Kirrily Anderson with input from consumers, consumer representatives and staff. 

Titled “Where the Light Finds Us,” the artwork reflects the theme “seasons of life”, acknowledging the ups and downs people experience while symbolising resilience, growth and hope.

Stretching along the courtyard wall, the piece transforms the area into a more welcoming, calming and reflective environment used daily by consumers, staff and visitors.

A smashing effort

Albury Wodonga Health Chief Operating Officer, Allied Health and Mental Health, Kim White, said the donation highlights the powerful role community partnerships play in supporting mental health care.

“Healthcare is never delivered by hospitals alone. It’s delivered in partnership with the communities we serve,” Ms White said.

“When communities step forward in the way the Wodonga Squash & Racquetball Club has done, the impact goes far beyond a fundraising total.

“It strengthens programs, enhances environments and supports people during some of the most challenging moments in their lives.”

Nolan House provides acute inpatient mental health care for people across the Albury Wodonga region. Alongside clinical treatment, consumers participate in a range of therapeutic programs designed to support recovery, rebuild confidence and help people reconnect with everyday life.

Nolan House Occupational Therapist Lauren Bittner said the donation has helped expand opportunities for meaningful therapeutic activities.

“These programs play an important role in recovery,” Ms Bittner said.

“Activities like cooking, art and shared group programs help people reconnect with daily routines, build confidence and express themselves in ways that support their wellbeing.”

Wodonga Squash & Racquetball Club representatives Helen Woolley and Elwyn Langford said the club community was proud to support mental health care in the region.

“We are incredibly proud to see how our fundraising is supporting local mental health services,” said Ms Woolley. “We are in awe of the difference it’s already making for people at Nolan House.”

Hosted every year, the club’s 24-hour rally marathon brought players and supporters together in a continuous fundraising event that raised more than $27,000 for Nolan House programs.

Ms White said the initiative was a wonderful example of community spirit in action.

“The determination and generosity shown by everyone involved in the 24-Hour Challenge has made a real difference here at Nolan House,” she said.

“It’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together around something that truly matters.”