The institute, with dedicated cancer treatment centres at Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour, is amid 10^th anniversary celebrations.

Mid North Coast Local Health District director of integrated care Bronwyn Chalker said patients received local cancer treatment that was world-class quality.

“There is no need for them to travel away for their cancer treatment,” she said.

“We are making a difference to people’s lives.”

Mrs Chalker paid tribute to the team during a celebration at the Port Macquarie centre on August 22.

“The staff are incredibly dedicated, motivated and just committed to the very best patient care,” she said.

Volunteers were also recognised during the event.

The cancer institute delivers cancer drug therapy, radiotherapy, clinical trials and cancer supportive therapies.

An integrated multi-disciplinary team approach is taken to patient treatment and support.

The 10-year anniversary features events for staff, volunteers and health professionals, culminating in community open days on August 26.

Mid North Coast Cancer Institute started operation as a specialist cancer treatment centre in 2007 after years of planning and development.

Construction of the Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour sites began in 2005 and continued throughout 2006.

More than 14,500 patients have been treated at MNCCI.

MNCCI has become a leader in cancer treatment within NSW.

It was the first service of its kind to introduce electronic medical records and the first to offer both image guided and intensity modulated radiotherapy as routine standard of care.

In its early years, MNCCI also took the lead in the development of a state-based cancer protocol system, which is now used by thousands of clinicians across Australia and the world.

A celebration on August 22 recognised staff and volunteers for their dedication.

Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams said community feedback about the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute was always positive.

“All I ever hear is the fact that the staff and volunteers at this institute every single day go above and beyond,” she said.

Sandra Lynch is a long-standing volunteer.

“I’ve seen the difference of course that people no longer have to go to Newcastle or Sydney for treatment,” she said.

Mrs Lynch said the volunteer work made her feel useful again after retiring.

Both MNCCI campuses will host a community open day on August 26 from 10am until 2pm. 

Members of the public are invited to join the anniversary celebrations which will include campus tours and a free barbecue lunch.