May 21, 2025Northern Health’s beloved volunteer, Norma McGrillen, has been a devoted member of the Preston Auxiliary – affectionately known as Busy Fingers – at the Northern Health Bundoora Centre for an incredible 25 years. In 2024, she proudly joined the celebration of the Auxiliary’s 50th anniversary, a milestone that highlights the enduring impact of the group and dedicated volunteers like Norma.
A true fixture of the Bundoora community, Norma is fondly described as “part of the furniture.” Known and deeply appreciated by both staff and visitors, she brings unwavering warmth and commitment to her role. For the past 17 years, Norma has also served as Treasurer, carrying out her responsibilities with diligence, a sharp business sense, and a famously keen eye for a bargain.
Reflecting on her years of service, Norma recalls countless moments when familiar faces would pop up unexpectedly while she assisted customers. Her journey with the Auxiliary began, as she puts it, when she was “hoodwinked” by the Auxiliary’s founding members, Olive and Jack Wall, into joining. In those early days, even the husbands got involved – transporting handmade goods to stalls at Northland and Epping shopping centres to raise much-needed funds for the hospital.
Quietly generous and always ready to lend a hand, Norma brings light to every day with her wicked sense of humour and kind spirit. Whether helping a customer or chatting with a patient, she leaves people feeling a little brighter.
Norma and her late husband, Bernie, share a proud family legacy – two daughters, three grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
To mark National Volunteer Week 2025, we sat down with Norma to learn more about her journey and the wisdom she’s gained along the way.
Q: After 25 years of volunteering, what has been the most unexpected lesson or experience that stayed with you?
A: I’ve learned that a smile and time spent with someone – regardless of cultural differences or language barriers – is absolutely priceless.
Q: What motivates you to keep showing up year after year? What’s at the heart of your motivation?
A: For me, volunteering is a way to give back. It’s my ‘Thank you’ for the care and compassion my dad received – and later, the support given to my husband while he was living with Parkinson’s disease.
Q: How has volunteering changed you personally over the years?
A: I’ve become a better listener – and more tolerant.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting their volunteer journey, what would it be?
A: Absolutely do it! Volunteering is incredibly rewarding. You’ll gain valuable experience, hear meaningful stories from the people you meet, and make a real difference. And most importantly – never underestimate the power of a warm smile.
From all of us at Northern Health, we extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Norma for her remarkable 25 years of service at the Bundoora Centre. Your dedication is truly inspiring!
Pictured in featured image (L-R): Natalie Carroll, Volunteer Coordinator at Bundoora Centre with Norma McGrillen.
