News

REDHS recognises years of commitment

By Lua Ikenasio

Dec 15, 2025

Rochester and Elmore District Health Service’s long-serving staff members and volunteers were recognised for their dedication at the REDHS annual meeting.

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REDHS presented long-service awards recognising staff who had reached 10, 15, 20, 25 and 35 years of service.

REDHS board chair Chris White and REDHS chief executive Mary Manescu with Kate Dewhurst (middle), who has achieved 15 years with REDHS. Photo by Lua Ikenasio

Among those acknowledged in person were Daneeta Ede (10 years), Kate Dewhurst (15 years) and Jasmin Powles (20 years).

Several staff members who could not attend, including Jody Gavalakis, Rhonda Nalder, Kim Powles, Pauline Jones, Susan Ludbey and Heather Wickham, were also honoured for their years of service.

Jasmin Powles, who has been with REDHS for 20 years, with REDHS chief executive Mary Manescu. Photo by Lua Ikenasio

Deputy chair Brad Hurst presented the awards and said it was important to recognise the staff for their work.

“AGMs are, of course, a time for lots of formal business, but they’re also an important opportunity for recognition and celebration,” he said.

“The board would like to acknowledge the contribution of the number of staff, for their extensive years of service to REDHS, and we certainly thank them for their commitment and their dedication for so many years.”

REDHS board chair Chris White and REDHS chief executive Mary Manescu with Daneeta Ede (middle), who has achieved a decade with REDHS. Photo by Lua Ikenasio

Following on from the staff awards, the board then took the opportunity to recognise volunteers who had dedicated their time to REDHS.

The first award was presented to Christine Wright, Kate Lee, Judy Murray and Judy Anderson, former members of the Consumer and Community Advisory Board.

The four women were acknowledged for their work during and after the 2022 floods in listening to the community and providing insight to staff.

The Rochester Hospital Auxiliary, long-time supporters of REDHS, was awarded too for its donations, which have gone towards purchasing critical medical equipment and improving the hospital.

Upon accepting the award on behalf of the auxiliary, Maureen Leahy shared a few words about the history of the group and its contributions to REDHS.

REDHS board chair Chris White, Kate Lee, Judy Anderson and REDHS chief executive Mary Manescu. Photo by Lua Ikenasio

Jenny Reid also received an award on the day for her unwavering volunteer work since 2017.

Another award was presented to Joan Jenkins, who has been a consistent support to REDHS aged care residents and an active member of the Consumer and Community Advisory Board.

REDHS board chair Chris White, Jenny Reid and REDHS chief executive Mary Manescu. Photo by Lua Ikenasio

Kate Lee was called on for a second time to receive an individual award for her eight years as part of the REDHS board and five years with the Consumer and Community Advisory Board.

Ms Lee has also quietly supported the auxiliary and has organised five debutante balls, with all proceeds going to REDHS.

In closing, REDHS thanked all staff and volunteers for their commitment and countless contributions, which continue to make a real difference to the community they serve.