The group's volunteers dedicate their time to provide practical support and companionship to the terminally ill living in both east and west Lake Macquarie.

Through services such as transport, respite care and hospital visits, they work to ease the burden of people faced with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.

Each year the group conducts a palliative care course, open to all members of the community who wish to know more about palliative care.

Treasurer of the group, Alice-Anne Holliday, said the course was worthwhile, regardless of whether or not you plan to actively volunteer after completion.

Ms Holliday has served the community since she completed the course in 2008.

"It gives you a great deal of satisfaction to lighten the load of someone who's not sure how long they're going to be here," Ms Holliday said.

■ The Westlakes Palliative Care Group is seeking volunteers for the 2013 palliative care course, which starts Monday, March 4, at Toronto Westlakes Community Health Centre. For more information email hnmacrae@bigpond.com.au or phone 4950 4072.