Barb Wiltshire retires after 50 years as Bellarine Community Health nurse

After an incredible half-century caring for others, Bellarine Community Health (BCH) community nurse Barb Wiltshire has retired.

After an incredible half-century of caring for others, Bellarine Community Health (BCH) community nurse Barb Wiltshire has retired. Picture: Supplied.

After an incredible half-century caring for others, Bellarine Community Health (BCH) community nurse Barb Wiltshire has retired.

The 68-year-old – who is the oldest nurse at BCH – is being celebrated for a warm and compassionate approach to her profession.

Ms Wiltshire’s career began in 1975 after she moved from country town Donald to complete a four-year course at the Royal Children’s Hospital and the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

“Originally I wanted to work with babies and young children, but I was encouraged to do general nursing,” she said.

The choice was one Ms Wiltshire did not regret, as her rewarding career spanned hospitals, aged care, and community health.

She spent her final 15 working years with BCH.

“Our nursing here at Bellarine Community Health is one of the best you can get,” she said.

As she prepares for retirement, Ms Wiltshire said she will miss the relationships the most.

“I will miss the company of all the nursing team at BCH because I just love them, and I will miss my clients because there’s a few that I have been looking after for quite a while,” she said.

Throughout her career, she also juggled raising four children.

Jacob Miller, Ms Wiltshire’s manager, said she will be greatly missed at work.

“Barb brings wisdom, warmth, and a great sense of humour to everything she does,” he said.

“She’s been a huge support to so many of us, and she’s told me just how much she values being part of this team, which she called the most supportive and wonderful group she’s worked with.

“High praise from someone with a career as long and meaningful as hers!”

Originally published as Barb Wiltshire retires after 50 years as Bellarine Community Health nurse