After discussions with staff at the centre, lodge members began fundraising and applying for assistance in order to fulfill the needs of the township and present the facility with a cheque for $3500.
Past worshipful master and Masonic Lodge member Geoff Shawcross said the lodge members were willing to do anything they could to help.
“The staff said they were looking to purchase an inflatable chair, but they were unable to afford it,” he said.
“So myself and a few other members approached the lodge and put the idea past them — and everyone was happy to help.”
The lodge gave $700 that members had fundraised through barbecues, raffles and other events and the remaining $2800 was given as part of a grant from the Freemasons Foundation.
Lockington Bush Nursing Centre manager Kim McDonald said by purchasing the Magna Elk air cushion, the team would be able to provide more care for the centre's patients.
“Because we don't have an ambulance close by, we at the centre are able to administer similar care, but when someone has a fall, they could be on the cold, hard floor for up to 30 minutes before the ambulance will arrive,” she said.
“But with this air cushion, we can get them off the floor safely and that will allow us to give the proper care.”
Worshipful master John Miller said there was nothing more worthwhile than donating to such a worthy recipient.
“Equipment like this will aid the community and this is why we're part of organisations such as the Masonic Lodge,” he said.
“Our aim is to support the community and it's things like these that we want to promote.”
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