Summary
Eventide Home Rockhampton held a special farewell for five staff who have clocked up almost two centuries of service between them.
Director of Nursing Caitlyn Harvey said that 195 years of combined service is not just a number – it’s a legacy, built on dedication, wisdom, resilience, and heart.
“You’ve weathered many changes, embraced challenges, and guided others through both triumphs and trials. And you’ve done it with grace, with laughter, and often with a quiet strength that inspired us all,” she told four of the staff at a farewell morning tea.
“What you leave behind isn’t just years of service – it’s lives touched, careers nurtured, and friendships formed. You’ve been more than colleagues; you’ve been mentors, confidantes, and for many of us, a source of daily inspiration.
“As you step into this well-earned chapter of retirement, may you find joy in the freedom, pride in the past, and excitement for the days ahead. Your absence will be felt deeply, but your impact will continue to echo through the halls and hearts you’ve helped shape.”
Former Nurse Unit Manager Dare Paine started work at Eventide in the old building back in 1981. She enjoyed caring for the elderly residents, and looking back on her career of 44 years, said she hoped she’d looked after them as she would her own family.
She also enjoyed the many friends she’d made over the years. Dare has been taking advantage of her work-free days by doing maintenance work on her stables and catching up on jobs at home.
Assistant in Nursing Carrol Stock started aged 16½ in 1977 and was made permanent when she was 17.
“One of the old nurses from back then told me to come and check it out, so I thought I’d see what it’s like,” she said.
Nearly 50 years later, she says she enjoyed her career, and she liked working with the residents.
Operational Services Officer Julie Burgoyne started in 1981, and also enjoyed the friendships she made over the years.
“And I love the residents. They’re all different, and we had a good camaraderie with the staff.”
Assistant in Nursing Kathy House started at Eventide in 2001. She was out of work and her mother and sister who both worked at Eventide recommended she try nursing.
“And I did. I’ve really enjoyed my time here. I like the staff I’ve worked with and made many friends, and the residents are lovely.”
Also celebrated, but absent, was the achievement of Operational Services Officer Kristine Gill, who has worked at Eventide for 37 years.
The ladies were presented with gifts from their colleagues, and enjoyed a morning tea celebration where they reminisced about their many years of service, and fondly recalling friends and residents from over the years.