The Waikiwi Lions Club are coming to the rescue as the search for unreturned Southland Hospital equipment, including walking frames, shower stools and toilet frames continues.

The hospital made an initial plea for the return of equipment in June (2023) after items started to run low.

Allied Health Clinical Co-Ordinator Stacey Muir said while there was a great initial response from the community, there was still more loan equipment that needed to be returned. 

“It’s amazing that the Waikiwi Lions Club has stepped in to help us out,” she said. 

Lions Club president John Warren said after reading about the hospital’s public plea, it offered to help by creating collection points in Invercargill to make it easier for people to return loan equipment.

“The Waikiwi Lions Club is now 55 years old and while we are all a bit older, we still have a willingness to get out and support the community as we have in the past."

“Our approach to be allowed to use the collection sites was welcomed by all and we are grateful for the support, as we are to Kennards Hire that have given us the use of a covered trailer."

“There is a need to get this equipment into the hands of people that need it."

"At the end of the day the hospital is an integral part of our community, and we are happy to offer help,” Warren said. 

 Collections dates and addresses: 

• September 3: Waikiwi Vet Clinic, 299 North Rd, Invercargill. 
• September 10: ILT Stadium Southland, Surrey Parks Sports Centre, Invercargill. 
• September 17: Newfield Tavern, Regent St, Invercargill. 
• September 24: Waikiwi Vet Services South City, 102 Elles Rd, Invercargill. 

People can drive up, drop off their items, and receive a small reward (lollypop) at the collection points from 10am to 2pm. 

The club will then transfer the items to the hospital’s loan department stores.