HOW can you place a value on 20 years of devoted volunteer work, some of it seven days a week?
You cannot really.
But one person who has filled that role for over two decades is Nagambie's Maureen "Moz" Fowler at the Nagambie Healthcare (NHC) facility on Church Street.
Maureen Fowler's biggest contribution has been with the elderly there.
When Maureen's mother Mary Heaphy went into the Nagambie Healthcare (NHC) hostel many years ago, "Moz" began her role there, working with the activities and lifestyle staff and supporting those who needed comfort and love, and becoming a special member of the caring team of volunteers and staff for the past 20 years.
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In 2013, Maureen Fowler was nominated for the State Aged and Community Services Australia (ACSA) Volunteer of the Year award and she and NHC were notified that she had won this state wide prestigious award.
ACSA is a federation with four state associations that provide direct support, advocacy and training for members.
The aged care industry comprises Residential Aged Care Facilities, home care and nursing services, retirement villages, independent living units and senior's housing.
Nagambie healthcare staff in 2013 organised a celebratory morning tea at which Maureen could be presented with her award in front of the elderly residents and staff she worked alongside then.
For the past ten years Maureen Fowler has continued her volunteer work and has seen many changes in the Nagambie nursing and hospital facility, the buildings, the staff, residents and their families.
Maureen is well known not only by members of the NCH Board staff and volunteers, but the hundreds of residents and their families over the years and the visiting transitional service folk that attend the facility regularly.
Her compassion, devotion and caring nature have helped so many people in all walks of life who have passed through those NHC doors.
On November 24, 2022, at the Annual General Meeting of the Nagambie Healthcare Board President John Palmer presented Maureen Fowler with a Life Governor, plaque thanking her for her outstanding 20 years of volunteer service to the Nagambie Healthcare which serves the community.
The Gazette caught up with Maureen "Moz" Fowler on Friday, February 10 to discuss the recognition she had received.
"I am thrilled to receive this Life Governor award in recognition of the time and efforts I have given to so many over the years and I thank everyone for their support," she said.
"I like to give help where it is needed in the wards, on bedside vigils, hostel, kitchen and resident's meals, if needed escort for patient transport, help with social activities, and organised trips.
"In fact I love coming to work here every day.
"Luckily I have a very supportive husband Keith, and he is happy if I am happy with what I am doing each day."
Congratulations Maureen Fowler from not only your NHC community for all your years of devoted service but from the wider community.
