‘Diversity, whaanau, acceptance, challenges and doing a job well’ – these are just some of the reasons why our staff love their jobs and stay at Counties Manukau Health for years.
Just before lockdown, both the Orderly department and Surgery, Anaesthesia and Perioperative Service (SAP) celebrated their annual Long Service awards.
Fifty-six orderly staff received awards for long service for between 10 and 20 years, with staff member Stephen McQuinn reaching his 20 years of service.
Mohiti Tonitara, Orderly Team Leader says the Orderly department is a family orientated area.
“It’s really diverse and that’s what creates the real whaanau feeling and why people want to stay here.
“It’s the best place to work. Everyone is accepting of each other, they know their job well and do it very well. I have an orderly on my afternoon shift who is 75 years old, still working, and has been here 30 years. It’s just a great team.”
(image: Mohiti Tonitara, Orderly Team Leader)
The team from Surgery, Anaesthesia and Perioperative Services (SAP) recognised long service awards for over 40 staff members.
“We are so lucky to have them on our team and we take pride in their accomplishments and commitment,” says John Kenealy, Clinical Director SAPS.
Among those who received awards was Joye Rowlands, Quality & Risk Manager SAPS, who celebrated a fantastic milestone of 40 years’ service, followed by Deborah Murray, Clinical Nurse Specialist, National Burn Centre, who celebrated an amazing 30 years.
When asked what she enjoys about working at CM Health, Joye Rowlands says it’s all about belonging.
“I completed my nursing training at Middlemore Hospital and have always felt this place is like home for me. I live locally, work locally and have enjoyed my time at Counties. Every day is different and each day brings new challenges. I love working at Counties – it’s a diverse and friendly place to work. I always say I belong to Team Counties.”