News & Events

For the past five years, Thursday has meant one thing for Eileen. Bingo at St George Leagues Club.

A Weekly Routine

It is a routine she enjoys. The familiar faces on the bus, the regular table at the club and the chance to catch up with friends before the numbers start being called.

But one Thursday morning, that routine turned into something far more serious.

A Fall at Home

In the early hours of the morning Eileen had a fall in her bathroom and became wedged between the toilet and a cabinet. Unable to move and unable to reach the phone, she remained stuck on the floor for hours.

“I was banging on the wall hoping someone might hear me. I was stuck between the toilet and the cabinet and I couldn’t move it.”Eileen

It was still early and her neighbour could not hear her calls for help.

“If it had happened any other day, I would probably still have been lying there,” she said.

Luckily, It Was Thursday

When St George Community driver Robin arrived for Eileen’s regular pick-up and she did not come to the door, he knew something was not right. Eileen normally answers the phone quickly and is always ready for the bus.

Instead of driving on, Robin knocked on the door and called out.

“I heard someone calling my name. He said, ‘Where are you?’ and I said, ‘In the bathroom on the floor.’”Eileen

Help Is On The Way

Robin immediately contacted the St George Community office and emergency services were called. While help was on the way, driver Heru and carer Martine attended Eileen’s home and remained outside, speaking with her through the window and reassuring her until emergency crews arrived.

Eileen had been on the floor for around five hours by the time help reached her. Fire and rescue crews were required to force entry so paramedics could access the house.

She was taken to hospital where she remained for several days before making a full recovery.

A Team Effort

St George Community Fleet Manager Phill also followed up with Eileen while she was in hospital and again after she returned home to ensure she was recovering well.

Inside the office, the situation quickly became a coordinated team response. Dispatch team members Marija and Alan, together with CEO Natasha Stokes, assisted in managing the incident while ensuring Robin could continue his rounds and safely transport his other passengers.

“It was truly remarkable to see everyone spring into action. I loved that another vehicle’s team stepped in to help so Robin’s passengers could still get where they needed to go. It was a very proud moment for my team.”Natasha Stokes, CEO

A gentle reminder

This story is also an important reminder to make sure your emergency contact details are up to date.

Back To Bingo

Eileen, who lives alone and has no family nearby, was deeply grateful for the support she received.

“It happened on the right day,” she said.

And in true Eileen fashion, she was back at bingo the following week.

She even won.

Need help getting out and about?

If you are over 65, or have a friend or loved one who could benefit from safe, reliable transport and social outings, St George Community would love to help.

📞 Call 9585 3000 or learn more about our Social & Active Living services.