What is The Care Shuttle?

One of Umbrella Group’s most recent initiatives, The Care Shuttle, supports cancer patients who experience transport barriers when accessing vital treatment at Albany Hospital and Genesis Care.

The Care Shuttle was developed following significant community-led fundraising efforts that helped secure local radiation treatment services in Albany. With major funding commitments from both the Federal and Western Australian Governments, radiation therapy became available locally, removing the need for patients to travel to Perth for treatment.

With the radiation therapy fully funded, the community funds were redirected to address another critical need — patient transport. Many people were still facing difficulties getting to appointments, highlighting the importance of reliable, accessible transport. These funds were used to support the purchase of a dedicated transport vehicle, leading to the establishment of The Care Shuttle project under Umbrella Group.

The first Care Shuttle vehicle has been proudly operating since June 2024, with long-term plans to grow the service into a fleet across the Great Southern. The service originally operated with a small fee to cover expenses; however, thanks to the incredible support of local donors and grants, the Care Shuttle is now provided free of charge. Our vision is simple — that no patient misses essential treatment because they can’t access transport.

Get Involved

There are many ways to support The Care Shuttle and other UGGS programs. Become a fundraiser, Attend an event, become a member, or volunteer—especially if you’d like to help as a shuttle driver. Your time and support help make services like this possible.

Donate

We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from the community. Your continued financial support plays a crucial role in keeping The Care Shuttle in operation and helps UGGS continue to make a difference in the lives of people and families in our area. Every dollar you give goes directly to helping those in need within our community. Donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible.

Thank you for your generosity!

Meet our The Care Shuttle Team

Noeline Rowsell

Noeline is our Care Shuttle Co-ordinator and Volunteer Shuttle Driver. As a semi-retiree Noeline arranges all of our appointments with clients and volunteer drivers.

Rita Mieschbuhler

One of our dedicated volunteer drivers.

Testimonials

Very pleased with this service. Invaluable. Noeline is a delight.
Thank you.

— Jacquie Codee

I very much appreciated the service given to me over the period of my cancer treatment, being transported from home to Genesis Care and back each time. I appreciated the wonderful service of the drivers. It’s an invaluable service that helps cancer patients in Albany.

— Dave Morgan

To Noeline and all the wonderful team. Many thanks for all your kindness in taking Bob to and from his radiation treatment. We are so grateful. Bless you all.