The RNH team gathered this morning to farewell Infection Prevention and Control Nurse Maree Bell, who has called time on her career after 24.5 years with the organisation.
Executive Manager Clinical Services Joseph Bermudo thanked Maree for her accomplishment, particularly during the challenging Covid times.
Paying tribute to how highly respected Maree is amongst the team, not least for her willingness to help out other teams, Joseph said her retirement will “leave a great gap in our service”.
Described by several fellow nursing staff as “fierce but caring”, Maree was responsible for training and supporting a number of staff as they started, and advanced, their careers and it was made clear at today’s morning tea just how much she will be missed.
Commenting that she was grateful she applied for the “fascinating” IPC role, Maree touched on some of the changes she has seen during her almost quarter-century with the health service, including seeing many staff come and go, the transition to the new RNH building, and the challenges Covid presented.
“But we all worked together and got through it,” she said.
Wishing new IPC Chloe all the best, Maree was presented with several farewell gifts and plans to spend her retirement travelling, gardening, crafting, and spending time with her grandchildren.