Volunteer drivers offer caring transport service
Pam and Ian Dill are part of a
largely anonymous band of
volunteers who gladly transport
eligible clients to medical
appointments across Toowoomba
every weekday.
Mr and Mrs Dill and fellow
Toowoomba Community Care
Transport Inc (TCCT) volunteers
have travelled thousands of
kilometres to ferry people to and
from appointment in the 23 years
since the service was started by
the Rotary Club of Toowoomba.
The organisation was chosen as
the charity beneficiary for this
year’s Mayoral Prayer Breakfast.
Mr Dill started driving in 2003, with
his wife joining the driving ranks
around eight years ago
'It is a rewarding experience to
help people who otherwise would
struggle to afford to travel to and
from appointments," Mrs Dill said.
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"Drivers regularly wait for clients at
their appointments, which eases
the stress of waiting for transport
to return home, particularly after a
round of treatment."
TCCT president Tony Mullen said
the service was devised as part
of the Rotary Club of Toowoomba’s
community service program
in 1995.
"A team of volunteer drivers
transports approved clients
to medical appointments at
Toowoomba hospitals and a
range of medical and allied health
practitioners across Toowoomba
city on weekdays," Mr Mullen said.
"Our drivers complete up to 6000
single trips each year."
"The original intent to provide
a service offering affordable
transport option to community
members who require medical
treatment but are not eligible to
be transported by the Queensland
Ambulance Service remains a
primary objective.
“Many people might not be able to
call on family members and friends,
or live alone and might be unable
to drive.
“The caring aspect is an important
part of the service as often clients
need extra assistance to travel
to their treatment or require help
getting in and out of a vehicle.
“This extra level of personal
attention is greatly appreciated by
many clients. Some have written to
express their gratitude, thanking
our volunteers for their courtesy,
friendliness and extra help during
their daily trips,” Mr Mullen said.
Enquiries about joining the driving
ranks or checking eligibility for
the service can be directed to
4646 3270.
www.tr.qld.gov.au/bold
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