Murray to Moyne team funds luxury recliners for Edenhope hospital

No one appreciates a comfortable seat more than a group of cyclists. 

This is perhaps why Edenhope’s Murray to Moyne team chose to fund a suite of luxurious furniture for the local hospital. 

Murray to Moyne is an annual fundraising event, which sees local cyclists ride 520 kilometres from Mildura to Port Fairy over two days; the Edenhope team this year raised more than $7,000 for Grampians Health Edenhope. 

The team chose to purchase three reclining lift chairs with attachable tables, valued at $6,500, for the hospital’s acute ward. 

The chairs are upholstered in medical-grade vinyl, to meet infection control requirements. 

They also feature a vertical lift and removable armrests, for safe patient handling. 

“This was something acute nursing staff flagged as a priority, so we were excited to raise enough money to fund the whole project,” Murray to Moyne team leader, Chad Eastwood said. 

“A lot of effort went into sourcing proper medical chairs that were comfortable, hygienic and practical for patients who might need some extra support. 

“It’s rewarding to see the money we raise spent on something that will make such a difference to people in their time of need.” 

Campus Manager Tricia McInnes said the recliners were key in creating a welcoming communal space for patients and visitors. 

“The couch we had in that shared space was very sad and uninviting; it was also difficult to get elderly or vulnerable patients up and, on their feet, again,” she said. 

“Patients can now enjoy an escape from their room, to watch a movie or socialise with visitors, which is especially nice if they are in hospital over several days.” 

Most importantly, Ms McInnes said the furniture enhanced safety for nursing staff. 

“These chairs have so many modern features, so our team members don’t need to use physical effort to assist patients,” she said. 

“They have also been designed for the hospital environment, with materials that can be cleaned thoroughly. 

“It is yet another practical and generous gift from the Murray to Moyne team, which will benefit this community for many years to come.”