It will contribute to the $3.8 million upgrade to provide an additional ten rooms and facilities at the centre, which is used by several people from the Edward River Council region.
Mayor Norm Brennan said the importance of the facility to the region was reflected in council’s pledge.
‘‘If you look at the stats, Deniliquin is in the top three local government areas that uses Hilltop,’’ Cr Brennan said.
‘‘Deniliquin is one of the two hotspots for cancer related activities.
‘‘So therefore, it is just a logical thing to support our community by supporting a facility that provides aid to those people who have cancer.’’
Since it was opened in 2013, 2700 families have been assisted through the provision of in excess of 37,000 room nights at Hilltop.
Of those, 1860 room nights have been for people from the Edward River Council area.
Deniliquin CanAssist patient liaison officer Bianca Armytage said any effort to improve the capacity and services of the Hilltop centre would be beneficial to locals.
‘‘Hilltop has been a vital resource for many of our clients and their families,’’ she said.
‘‘It’s one less thing for them to worry about in a time that is already stressful enough.
‘‘Knowing they have a nice place to stay in a friendly and safe environment near treatment is one of the best outcomes we could ask for.’’
Council’s contribution to Hilltop has been enthusiastically welcomed by the Deniliquin Rotary Club, which has supported the centre since before it was built in 2012.
Rotary and Lions clubs, and Zonta of Albury Wodonga, spearheaded the initial fundraising campaign to establish Hilltop in 2012/2013. The initial fundraising total was $5.5 million.
Stage two is expected to include an additional 10 accommodation suites, library/quiet room, gymnasium, additional laundry facilities and utility rooms and an additional administrative area.
More than $1.9 million has already been committed from the Commonwealth Government, with another $1,134,796 from the centre’s Future Fund.
The final $1 million is being sought as community donations.
To contribute to the Hilltop capital appeal campaign, contact Alice Glachan at alice.glachan@fightcancer.org.au or go to www.fightcancer.org.au.
If you would like to support Deniliquin Rotary’s fundraising campaign for Hilltop, phone president Denise Phillips 0409 815 767.