Berrigan nurse receives top health award

Ms Robertson is the sole practice nurse at the medical centre, and was commended for her ‘‘tireless efforts to keep the town’s only medical centre operational while the practice’s regular doctor was unable to visit due to the COVID-19 pandemic’’.

‘‘We found ourselves in a very difficult position this year when our doctor, because of COVID-19, was restricted to Melbourne,’’ Berrigan Local Health Advisory Committee chair Tony Taylor explained.

‘‘People tell us what a treasure she is, and we are glad she got this award because it acknowledges the effort Lorraine puts in.’’

While thrilled with the award, Ms Robertson said she did not do any of it alone.

‘‘Without a lot of other people’s input, I wouldn’t have been able to manage the work required,’’ she said.

‘‘The two locum GPs, the practice team, the local aged care facilities and allied health workers also supported me.’’

Ms Robertson has spent much of her career working in hospitals, initially working as a hospital cleaner and relief cook before choosing to study to be an enrolled nurse in 1994.

Once qualified she worked part-time at the Berrigan Medical Centre, and from 2001 also studied part-time with Charles Sturt University to become a registered nurse.

After a short stint in Corowa, she returned to Tocumwal and the Berrigan Medical Centre in 2005.

MPHN chair Dr Jodi Culbert said Ms Robertson goes above and beyond the level of care required by patients, and not just during the pandemic.

She said in addition to her regular duties as the practice nurse, Ms Robertson has been heavily involved in coordinating telehealth appointments, liaising with the doctor and ensuring patients

understand what medications and treatments have been prescribed.

‘‘Lorraine has also given exceptional outpatient service to residents, visiting those in their homes that are unable to attend the practice, checking in on their welfare and changing dressings, for example,’’ Dr Culbert said.