Each of these nurses brought their unique expertise to deliver the best possible care and outcomes to those entrusted to their care. 

Nurses are paid employees and don’t look for accolades, but I feel, that we as a community owe a big thanks to those who have recently retired in the last 18 months: Robyn Scott after 42 years of nursing; Marie Marshall after 55 years of nursing; Heather Scott after 13 years of nursing and diversional therapy; Vicki McIvor after 40 years of working on the wards and in community health; and Brenda Walker who still maintains the hospital gardens.

There have also been those who haven’t had a large number of years, but all have given the same amount of care and dedication to their patients and residents.

I trust that the love, pride, devotion, and the knowledge  these “older” nurses have for their patient, resident, clients and their hospital is passed on to the younger generation of nurses and that they, in return are given the support and encouragement from their peers and management that is so very important in this day and age, where social media, bullying , lack of respect and staff shortages, plays a huge part in life.

To those who have retired thank you for the years of caring for others, at the expense of missed milestones with your families due to work commitments and the behind the scene hours given freely. 

Enjoy your retirement it is well deserved.

To the staff still nursing, your hard work in difficult circumstances is very much appreciated.