Long-term staff celebrated

Labour shortages in the aged care industry can make it difficult to hold on to long-term staff, but Immanuel Gardens Retirement Village has apparently “defied the odds”.

Eighteen Immanuel Gardens Retirement Village staff recently celebrated 259 years of accumulated service, with many working as care staff for more than a decade.

The employees recently celebrated their milestones receiving certificates and badges to mark the occasion.

Immanuel Gardens manager, Steve Stacey, said he felt proud of the time and care the employees had given to the local community.

“They have all demonstrated a huge amount of commitment to care and services for older Australians. We are lucky to have them here after such lengthy service and we look forward to celebrating future achievements with all of them,” he said.

Assistant in Nursing, Faye Swanson, was one of the employees recognised for her long service.

“I had no idea when I started I had the capabilities to do what I have until I found myself in that position. I’ve had an amazing 10 years,” he said.

Assistant in Nursing, Patricia Maltman, working in her first and only nursing job, had been with Immanuel Gardens for more than 18 years.

“Who’s counting? It doesn’t seem that long. It’s given me stability and a family away from home. Aged care is a nice career,” Ms Maltman said.

Assistant in Nursing, Carol Gray, describes aged care as a “home away from home”, having worked at Immanuel Gardens for 21 years.

“I feel part of the place and it’s such a beautiful environment to work in with the outlook to the sea and the forest behind us and the gardens.”

She added her role at Immanuel Gardens had allowed her to share in the lives with many “wonderful folk”.

“I’ve met country people, veterans, community leaders, doctors and professionals from all walks of life.

“The experience you build, the knowledge you gain, continued challenges, what you learn from others and the connection you make with people is worth the long haul.”