Mr King – like many others – is a patient at Lilier Lodge, which provides accommodation for people undergoing cancer treatment. 

“I thought I would be all alone,” Mr King said. 

“I have worked on the land for my whole life – this is the first time I’ve just sat around.”

On Wednesday, Lilier Lodge named a wing in honour of Brian and Joy Kahlefeldt, whose donations have provided transportation to and from treatment for more than 8000 patients. 

Mr King said he was extremely grateful to the Kahlefeldts, who made his stay possible. 

“Everyone here is so friendly and I am extremely grateful to be here,” Mr King said. 

“Normal accommodation would cost me a fortune. 

“I was afraid I would be bored but there’s plenty to do.” 

Mr and Mrs Kahlefeldt have dedicated their lives to helping people.  

The Kahlefeldts purchased two buses for transportation to the Riverina Cancer Centre and have maintained the vehicles for more than 10 years. 

Mr Kahlefeldt said he was surprised and grateful to have the wing named in his honour. 

“We do these humanitarian things because it’s what we want to do,” Mr Kahlefeldt said. 

“If people respond positively it makes us very happy and means we are on the right track.” 

Mr Kahlefeldt said he works hard to ensure his donations go directly to those in need. 

“People want to help but don’t often know how – outright donations often go to administration rather than the people who it’s intended to help,” Mr Kahlefeldt said. 

“We have had such a wonderful response to this initiative.

“We see Wagga as home and we want to see it progress.” 

Griffith’s Margaret Bryce is staying at the lodge while her husband, Keith, receives his eight week treatment. 

Mr Bryce has been suffering from cancer for six months. 

“It is just wonderful, it is like a home away from home,” Ms Bryce said. 

“It is great to have time together with other people who are going through the same things. 

“The friendships you form can be a real outlet.”