MORE than forty-thousand dollars was raised by the Murwillumbah District Hospital Auxiliary this year.

Tweed Byron Network general manager Annette Symes said the auxiliary was "a small group of dedicated volunteers, who readily assist the hospital in any way they can".

"During the 2010-2011 financial year, the members volunteered 3,684 hours, which averages out to over 10 hours volunteering for every day of 365 days of the year.

"This is a fantastic effort and their support is very much appreciated."

Ms Symes said the auxiliary's most recent achievements were establishment of the hospital's outpatient clinic and electrically adjustable examination couch.

"(The latter of) which is used for paediatric and antenatal patients when attending their clinic appointments."

She said it was established in 1926 and all funds it raised were used to purchase equipment for the benefit of the hospital's patients.

"In 2011 alone, in excess of $40,000 of equipment has been purchased to assist patients through their hospital journey," Ms Symes said.

For those interested in the auxiliary's activities, donating to or joining in with it contact the president, Val Foster, on 02 6672 5992.

The auxiliary's main fund raising activities include:

• monthly street raffles;
• monthly Sunnyside Shopping Centre raffles;
• monthly Showground Markets;
• monthly Murwillumbah Services Club;
• hospital foyer raffle tickets;
• monthly card parties;
• individual and community group donations.