The Mothers’ Day Morning Tea hosted by the Maclean Lower Clarence Hospital Auxiliary was enjoyed by one hundred and fifteen mothers and friends. The president, Sandra Bradbury, welcomed special guests Dan Madden, CEO of Maclean and Grafton hospitals, Paul Schofield, head of nursing, and auxiliary patron, Vera Montague. Federal MP, Kevin Hogan and his wife, Karen, were delayed and arrived later. Well known bush poet, Bill Kearns, entertained everyone with a new poem written especially for the day titled “Like Grandma Used to Make”. Then followed one about Bessie, Pat and George and finally a poem referring to the Olympic Games titled “Heroes Happen” based on the efforts of Eric the Eel. Mr Madden thanked the community for their great support and mentioned the success of the ultrasound service. He has been advised that the hospital will soon receive a large bequest which will be used to buy a cat scan machine. More involvement of specialists is planned. There is now a pathology service at the Yamba Community Health Centre and a dental service is about to start. Mrs Vicki Gulaptis spoke on behalf of her husband, Chris MP, who was on his way back from Sydney. She thanked the auxiliary for their marvellous work which makes Maclean Hospital so special. Paul Schofield wished everyone a happy Mothers’ Day and thanked everyone for coming. The nursing staff appreciate all the latest equipment bought by the auxiliary which helps them provide top level care for patients. Many fortunate people won tombolas and lucky door prizes which were drawn by Bill Kearns. Mr Kevin Hogan spoke in praise of mothers and reminisced about his own mother, followed by his thanks to all mothers present. Gifts were given to the oldest mother present, Lyn McSwan aged 97, and to the youngest. The major raffle was drawn resulting in a win for Ian Lauder who received a beautiful painting, second prize of embroidered towels went to Marie Clark and a decorated plate to Dianne Lyons. In conclusion, President Sandra thanked the Services Club and staff for the use of their facilities, Rita Nutt and her helpers for the attractive table decorations, auxiliary members for their work and cooking including the men who dispensed the tea and coffee, Bill Kearns and, finally, everyone present for their support. A total of $2430 was raised to purchase equipment for Maclean District Hospital. The next meeting of the auxiliary will be held at 2pm on Monday May 16 in the conference room of Community Health at the hospital. New members are always welcome. Maggie Combley