Bairnsdale Regional Health Service’s Maddocks Gardens residential aged care facility recently celebrated its 20th anniversary in style.
More than 100 residents, guests and staff gathered at the 90-bed home to toast the anniversary of BRHS’ aged care operations officially transferring to Maddocks Gardens from its former facility at nearby Jacaranda House in 2004.
Party-goers shared cake, swapped stories and listened to speakers including BRHS Acting Aged Care Manager Clare Reed, who said she feels great pride working at Maddocks Gardens.
“I want to thank our staff, past and present, for their contribution to our aged care facility. We all bring unique qualities that mean so much to the residents and their families here at Maddocks,” Clare said.
“I feel very privileged to work with you all due to the care and empathy you show for the residents here at Maddocks Gardens,” Clare said.
“When I think about my life journey, on reflection I think I was always destined to be here at Maddocks Gardens., It’s very rewarding working with the staff and residents, and I have learned so much. I think the most rewarding part of this job is being here for the residents and their significant others to support them in whatever capacity is needed.”
Deputy Director Aged Care and Community Health Deborah Eveleigh was an Activities Coordinator when aged care moved to Maddocks Gardens 20 years ago.
“Over the past 20 years, there have been lots of great people working here. I think the oldest resident we had was 104 years old, and she was a very active lady who used to have wheelie walker races up and down the hallway,” Deborah said.
“The way the whole facility has evolved over time has been amazing. Every time we get new residents, we welcome them into the family and their family become our family, which is really nice.”
Deb and three other workers who were on-staff for the big move two decades ago – Loraine Wigg, Kellie Blair and Marg Hamilton (pictured) – were a part of the celebration.
