Upper Hunter health workers celebrate 20, 30 and 40 years’ service

29 November 2011

Dedicated health staff members at Scone, Muswellbrook, Merriwa, Denman, Quirindi, Werris Creek and Murrurundi will be recognised for their commitment to providing quality healthcare to their communities tomorrow.

More than 80 staff members will be recognised for their length of service, including staff members who have worked in health for more than 20, 30 and 40 years.

Of special note are four staff members who have worked with HNE Health for more than 40 years. They are Quirindi Community Hospital registered nurse Judith Barnes, Denman MPS casual catering assistant and cleaner Kaye Walsh, courier Ian Elvin based at Muswellbrook Hospital and Merriwa MPS Health Service Manager Margaret Smith.

Upper Hunter Cluster General Manager Dr Debbie Jaggers said tomorrow’s awards ceremony will be an opportunity to thank these staff members for their commitment.

“It’s important to recognise and thank staff for their contribution to providing health services,” Dr Jaggers said.

“I’m pleased to take the opportunity to recognise our region’s dedicated and longest serving staff.

“It’s amazing to think that over 80 staff members in this region have either provided or assisted our services to provide vital healthcare to their communities for 20, 30 and even 40 years.

“In their time in the industry they have seen many changes in health and seen our services overcome challenges and celebrate many achievements.

“We are thankful to be able to benefit from the experience and insight these staff members bring to our local health services.

“I thank them for their hard work and commitment during the many years they’ve worked with us, and I wish them more happy working years to come.”

The day will also feature a showcase of the innovative work being done in the region to improve health services for Upper Hunter communities.

This work includes new programs in antenatal care, pulmonary rehabilitation for Aboriginal people, continence programs for aged care residents and a program that aims to streamline ophthalmology services.

The awards ceremony will be held at Wilson Memorial Community Hospital, Murrurundi at 11am tomorrow (Wednesday 30 November).

Contact: Emma Gibbs

Phone: 6767 7137