But the home addresses of those who turned out to help blow out the house’s birthday candles over the weekend showed the facility is held in the highest regard in the hearts and minds of people right across the nation.

Families travelled from as far afield as Victoria for Saturday’s function, and with good reason: they are just some of the thousands who, in the past 24 months, have sought shelter and comfort while their loved ones battle illness at Orange Health Service.

Without exception, everyone who has visited or needed to stay in the house since it opened its doors has sung the praises of its wonderful homely atmosphere and of the dedicated volunteers, who are on a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week roster.

The house was 10 years in the planning and the fundraising process was a formidable task, but the past two years have shown it to be a more-than-worthwhile effort.

With the house now humming courtesy of the contribution of its staff and an army of generous volunteers it is gratifying to know that the word is now spreading to communities across Australia when the grateful families return to their far-away homes.

No family has been asked to pay for their room – indeed it would be impossible for many families to do so – which is why prior to the opening of the house it was not uncommon for hospital staff to hear families were sleeping in their cars while their children were being treated at Orange Health Service.

The Orange-based events committee is continually focused on ensuring there is a continuous flow of funds to keep the doors open and hold everything from garage sales to gala balls, as well as being supported by generous donors.

The facility services three quarters of the state and covers five health districts, which is also reflected in the figures showing how far some families have travelled to seek the expert care and attention available at Orange Health Service.

From the ladies who knit warm hats and scarves for visiting children to the volunteers on duty overnight, the success of Ronald McDonald House shows this is a community which really cares.

Anyone and everyone involved in its success should take a bow.