110 years of combined service

CARING FOR COMMUNITY... Shepparton Private Hospital acknowledged three of its own last year who have collectively contributed 110 years of combined service. Ann-Maree Borrelli has contributed 30 years' service to the private hospital, Elizabeth 'Liz' Mulcahy 45 years' service, and Moniqua Wright 35 years' service. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

THREE dedicated nurses at Shepparton Private Hospital have been recognised for their enduring commitment to care, clocking 110 years of service collectively.

Described as a “book of knowledge” by her colleagues, Clinical Nurse Specialist Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Mulcahy has worked at Shepparton Private Hospital the longest, since 1979.

Liz completed her training at the former Mooroopna Hospital, and she has also worked in midwifery in Canberra and Tatura. Presently she works in the private hospital’s operating theatre.

Moniqua Wright, an Enrolled Nurse in the medical-surgical ward, joined the private hospital in 1989 and has worked there for 35 years.

Contributing 30 years’ service, Ann-Maree Borrelli was a Clinical Nurse Specialist from 1994 until 2021, when she transitioned to a pre-admissions role. Notably, Ann-Maree has been involved in supporting patients requiring stoma care before and after surgery for the past 20 years.

CARING FOR COMMUNITY… Shepparton Private Hospital acknowledged three of its own last year who have collectively contributed 110 years of combined service. Ann-Maree Borrelli has contributed 30 years’ service to the private hospital, Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Mulcahy 45 years’ service, and Moniqua Wright 35 years’ service. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

The nursing trio have witnessed tremendous growth at the private hospital, with new services, wards, staff, travelling doctors, and an increase in patients choosing private healthcare since they commenced their roles. Furthermore, they have also seen the nursing profession change over time.

Liz said, “There is always something new to learn, whether it’s new procedures or new technology. The field is always evolving, and we have to keep up to ensure we’re providing the best care.”

“I think we would all agree that we’ve loved the people most of all, and that we have loved nursing and coming to work here,” Moniqua added. “It’s a special place, and the relationships we’ve built with patients and colleagues have made it all worthwhile.”

The hospital, originally called Sherborne Private Hospital, was established in 1979 by a group of local doctors to provide a private hospital alternative. In 2005, Ramsay Health Care purchased the Affinity Health portfolio, which included Shepparton Private Hospital. Last year, Ramsay Health Care celebrated its 60th anniversary, around the same time each of the nurses was awarded certificates marking their long service.