October 1, 2025“Think Pink!” is more than a slogan – it’s a rallying call during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, reminding us to honour, support, and uplift those affected by breast cancer. At Northern Health, we shine a light on two extraordinary groups whose generosity and compassion bring comfort and dignity to patients: the Whittlesea City Salvos Craft Group and Zonta District 23. Their handmade gifts – from drain tube bags to post-operative cushions – are small acts of kindness with a big impact.
Every Tuesday morning, a vibrant group of women gathers at the Whittlesea City Church in Mill Park – not just to craft, but to care. The Whittlesea City Salvos Craft Group, with around 40 active members, creates handmade items that bring comfort and dignity to patients across Northern Health services.
Among their many contributions are drain tube bags, used not only by breast cancer patients but also by those receiving care through Hospital in the Home (HITH). These bags are more than functional – they’re thoughtfully designed, often with cheerful patterns, allowing patients to move about with confidence.
“The ladies from the Whittlesea Salvation Army Craft Group are like little Christmas elves,” says the HITH team. “These bags magically appear at front reception on a regular basis and our team, and our patients, are extremely grateful for them.”
Natalie Carroll, Volunteer Coordinator, adds, “They are an amazing group of women. Anything we request is met with enthusiasm and received in quick time. They run solely on donations and the kindness of the community.”
Beyond their craft donations, the group also raises funds through four annual stalls, supporting initiatives both locally and abroad. In 2025 alone, they funded two humidifiers for the Neonatal Ward at Northern Health—valued at $3,000.
Joan Matthews, Craft Group Coordinator, reflects,“The Whittlesea City Salvos Craft Group takes great joy in giving back. Their work not only brings comfort and support to countless people but also fosters strong, lasting partnerships.”
Since 1995, Zonta District 23 has been quietly transforming recovery experiences for breast cancer patients through its Breast Care Cushion project. These crescent-shaped cushions are designed to ease post-operative discomfort, especially from seat belts and everyday movement.
Made by volunteers – both Zonta members and community contributors – the cushions are distributed free of charge to hospitals, where Breast Care Nurses offer them directly to patients.
Cheryl Murray, Breast Care Nurse Consultant, shares, “One of the most common remarks I receive is how comfortable and comforting the Zonta cushions are. Patients are happy to choose a turban or knitted beanie to help with hair loss or the seat belt cushion to protect their scars.”
Mel Gwynne, Nurse Unit Manager for Oncology and Medical Day Unit, echoes the sentiment, “The donations from these groups are very special for our patients. As soon as we receive the items, they are picked up by patients very quickly! A very big thank you for all your hard work – we all appreciate you.”
Together, the Whittlesea City Salvos Craft Group and Zonta District 23 exemplify the power of community-driven care. Their contributions – whether a handmade cushion, a cheerful drain bag, or a warm turban – offer not just physical comfort, but emotional reassurance to patients navigating cancer treatment.
Main image shows from left to right: Melanie Bullock, McGrath Cancer Care Nurse (Advanced Breast), Cheryl Murray, Breast Care Nurse Consultant, Renate Monteria (Zonta, Western Melbourne) and Sarah Young, McGrath Cancer Care Nurse Consultant (Breast).
