Colleen’s 30 years of service at Jimbelunga Nursing Centre

Colleen has seen our Jimbelunga Nursing Centre change and grow over three decades as an Assistant in Nursing, starting out on 1 February 1996 not long after Jimbelunga first opened its doors.

Staff and residents gathered for a special morning tea to celebrate Colleen and share their gratitude for her years of service and all that she has contributed to making Jimbelunga the heartful nursing home it is.

Colleen said she came to Jimbelunga looking for work, back when it was just a main building and three hostels. She started the next day and has stayed ever since.

“I am here for the residents, anything I can do for the residents, I will do. I want to be there for them, to help them. When I see the residents happy, I am happy.”

Resident Uncle Jeff, who is a Life Member of ATSICHS Brisbane, has known Colleen for 26 years while calling Jimbelunga home.

“Colleen is the best nurse I’ve ever met. She has what Aunty Pam stood for: compassion, dedication and commitment.”

“Jimbelunga is lucky to have her. I wanted to nominate her for an Order of Australia Medal but Colleen said she wasn’t one for the spotlight so I arranged a certificate of appreciation instead.”

There were lots of teary eyes as everyone reflected on Colleen’s dedication, a shining star, who tirelessly shows up in ways beyond her title, full of vitality that defies her 74 years of age.

As Director of Nursing Renee said in her speech on the day:

“Your role as Assistant in Nursing is more than a position to us. You have been an educator, carer, cleaner, cook, friend and kept staff on the straight and narrow, not accepting anything but the best work from your peers. You are dedicated, loyal and the hardest worker I have had the pleasure to know.”

“To the residents, you have been their carer, nurse, friend, sister, Aunty, nurturer, encourager, person to wipe their tears and to hug them when they need it most, clean freak and overall great person.”

“Thank you Colleen for all of your dedication and hard work.”

Jimbelunga has several long-serving staff members, including Renee herself who has been with the team 24 years and Environmental Services Officer Cath (pictured above) who joined 22 years ago.

This just goes to show, our staff are the heart and soul of what makes Jimbelunga such a special place to be.

Click on the photos below to expand the gallery.