Leisure and Lifestyle Assistant Marilyn Clancy was farewelled yesterday, after almost three decades of smiling, dedicated service to our Hopetoun and Warracknabeal residents.
Starting as a Personal Carer around 28 years ago, a knee replacement and shoulder operation left Marilyn seeking a new path.
Undertaking a Certificate 4, and later Diploma of Diversional Therapy, Marilyn accepted a role in the Leisure and Lifestyle team….where she has happily remained for the past 20+ years.
Commenting that although she will miss the residents and the role, Marilyn said “the time was right” to retire.
Presenting each of the female Hopetoun residents with a chain of hearts that she’d grown and nurtured, Marilyn said she has made a lot of friends and had a lot of fun over the years, and that she has a lot of good memories.
“I kept pushing retirement out further and further, but now was the right time,” she said, commenting that she plans to visit family and do some work on her house.
RNH CEO Jenni Masters thanked Marilyn for her many years of dedicated service.
“You have provided a friendly, caring welcome to not only our residents, but also our team, and I have no doubt that your legacy will live on,” Ms Masters said.
“Thank you for your genuine enjoyment of the role, and your tireless dedication. I hope you enjoy your very well-deserved retirement,” she said.
Described by colleagues as “a hard worker” and “fun”, Marilyn has taught so many so much over the years, as demonstrated in several speeches during the farewell afternoon tea attended by around 50 residents, staff and Hopetoun Auxiliary members.
Long time colleague, and fellow Leisure and Lifestyle Assistant Norma Decker, who was unfortunately unable to attend the farewell, said she found it hard to sum up what the years have meant.
“Working side by side has been a really amazing time,” Norma said, also touching on how the pair got used to being “the 2 Clancy’s” and answering to each other’s names.
“You loved the chance to dress up and plan special events, always having so much fun. And your spiritual role has meant so much to so many residents and families,” she said.
“We have loved sharing ideas, making them happen and, all in all, just bringing fun, laughter and lots of love to our roles. I actually feel like half of me is leaving.”
“Congratulations on everything you have given to aged care, we will miss you”.
Norma’s sentiment was echoed by Leisure and Lifestyle Team Leader Bron McIntyre who, due to the outbreaks in Yarriambiack Lodge, was also unable to attend Marilyn’s farewell.
“I want to express my heartfelt thanks and best wishes, you have played such an important role in my professional journey, from meeting in 2008 when you were my boss, to being my mentor, guide and friend,” Bron said.
“You taught me so much – not just about the ins and outs of Leisure and Lifestyle work, but about what it means to lead with passion, kindness, and a deep sense of purpose,” she said.
“Over the years, even as our roles changed, and eventually reversed, you never stopped encouraging and supporting me. That speaks volumes about your character and your generous heart.”
“Today, we are not only celebrating your incredible dedication and passion for your work, but also the way you mentored and inspired those around you. Your unwavering enthusiasm, your commitment to our residents and their families, and the respect you showed your colleagues will leave a lasting mark – not just on the current team, but on every person fortunate enough to have worked with you”.
Hopetoun Campus Nurse Unit Manager Alison Fischer wound up the celebration, echoing the sentiments shared and presenting Marilyn with a farewell gift of a plant, before Marilyn thanked all for attending.
“I have loved working here over the years. I love you all and I will return,” she said.
And return she will, planning to keep a hand in the Hopetoun Campus as she brings communion to, and conducts religious services for, residents.
Farewell Marilyn, and all the very best.