What attracted Elizabeth Burge to the role of child and family health nurse in the 1980s was a passion for helping families – so it’s fitting her farewell will support the Royal Children’s Hospital.
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Ms Burge is retiring from the Albury Community Health role, but won’t be leaving the health sector entirely – instead leading vision screening at preschools and childcare centres.
Her 20 years as a nurse stationed at Thurgoona Community Centre will be acknowledged at a farewell and fundraising event on Saturday night.
“I have loved going to work every day – I have been very fortunate I have enjoyed my time and am very sad to be leaving the centre,” she said.
“I feel as though Thurgoona has nearly doubled; when I first started, I was only working two days and it soon increased to three.
“As new mothers are discharged, we consult with families up until children are five – it’s about support and education.”
Ms Burge said a new appointment had been made for the child and family health nurse position, an integral service.
“Parenting isn’t easy, it has its good and bad points, and to have support around is so important,” she said.
“With the moving population, you don’t have extended family around, so having health workers in the community is so important.”
TCC co-ordinator Sherylyne Moran said she was sad to see Ms Burge go.
“A wonderful leader in her field and supporter of young families for so many years, her work through Albury Wodonga Health has left an amazing legacy for Thurgoona,” she said.
“The service has seen on average 100 babies from the area each year.
“Not only do the nurses see individual parents with their children for check-ups … these visits allow for the parents to allay any concerns they may have and to learn about feeding and settling of their new baby.
“Elizabeth thankfully will continue at the TCC as a volunteer.” A games night will be held at the centre from 6pm to 9pm with entry costs going to the RCH.
