The sentiment and meaning behind each submission reflected the deep love and respect that our staff have for fellow colleagues and members of our health service.
If we could plaster the names of every person who has significantly contributed to our service over the years, the walls would be filled with remarkable people, past and present, who have helped shape the care, compassion and commitment that define South West Healthcare today.
We are thrilled to announce that, as advised by the Minister of Health Infrastructure, Melissa Horne, the tower cranes will proudly bear the names…
Neville, known to many simply as ‘Nev’, is a passionate Warrnambool local and highly valued member of the South West Healthcare volunteer team.
For 14 years, Nev has generously dedicated his time and energy to supporting the organisation through the maintenance, washing and cleaning of the hospital fleet vehicles, as well as delivering essential medical supplies across the region.
Nev is widely recognised not only for his reliability and strong work ethic, but also for his warm and approachable nature. Always willing to stop for a chat, Nev brings positivity and connection to everyone he meets. His presence is deeply appreciated by staff, volunteers, patients and the general community, helping promote a welcoming environment across the organisation.
Over many years, Nev has contributed countless hours of voluntary service, consistently going above and beyond without expectation of recognition. His commitment reflects a deep sense of community spirit and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
Nev embodies the values of South West Healthcare in everything he does, demonstrating care, respect, integrity, and quiet dedication through his everyday actions.
He is without question a deeply respected member of the South West Healthcare community, and we look forward to honouring Nev with the naming of the crane that now stands in the former Fleet Car Park, a fitting tribute to his unwavering dedication to our health service and the broader community.
Thank you, Nev!
Carmel and Julieta’s combined decades of service represent a remarkable contribution to South West Healthcare, reflecting dedication and a deep commitment to supporting our organisation.
Carmel joined South West Healthcare in 1984 and has devoted 42 years of service to our Linen Services team. Julieta joined the department in 1989, and together they have built a lasting friendship and working partnership that continues to this day.
Throughout their careers, Carmel and Julieta became familiar faces across the hospital. Their kindness, positivity and willingness to help meant they were known and appreciated well beyond their department.
As part of the redevelopment project, the transition to the new Regional Logistics Distribution Centre in 2024 saw Carmel, Julieta and their colleagues relocate to the state-of-the-art $50 million facility. While their physical workplace changed, their legacy certainly did not.
What makes this recognition even more special is that the crane stands on the very site of the former hospital laundry, where Carmel and Julieta spent many years working side by side.
The ground beneath the crane holds the story of more than 70 years of combined service and commitment.
Naming the crane in their honour is a fitting tribute not only to their years of dedication, but also to the lasting impact they have had, and continue to have on South West Healthcare, and we thank Carmel and Julieta for their hard work and commitment to our service.