December 9, 2025This morning, Northern Health hosted the annual Length of Service Awards for 2025, recognising the extraordinary contributions of more than 460 staff who have achieved between 10 and 50 years of service. Many of these colleagues have been with us since the days of PANCH, and together, their dedication represents over 7,500 years of collective service to our community.
More than 250 staff members tuned in online to watch the celebration, which also featured a series of light-hearted videos, in the style of Sir David Attenborough, showcasing notable moments from each year including some milestone from Northern Health.
Northern Health’s Chief Executive, Debra Bourne, opened the ceremony by acknowledging the depth of experience across our workforce.
“We have a large number of staff working across Northern Health, many who have provided service since PANCH. It is great to see how our health service has grown since PANCH, with the inclusion of Craigieburn and Mernda Community Hospitals this year,” she said.
This year, several colleagues reached remarkable milestones that reflect decades of dedication, professional excellence and unwavering commitment to patient care.
40 Years of Service:
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Susanne Pettingill, Sonographer
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Marion Alki, Patient Service Assistant
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Anthony Salgram, Theatre Technician
Susanne and Anthony were unable to attend the ceremony in person, but their achievements were warmly acknowledged. Marion received her award from Lisa Cox, Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, and spoke about the incredible evolution of healthcare over the past four decades, reflecting on the many changes she has witnessed across the organisation.
45 Years of Service:
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Gillian Walters, Computer Clerk
Gillian was presented with her award by Linda Romano, Chief Operating Officer. She shared heartfelt reflections on her long and rewarding career at Northern Health, describing the many colleagues, departments and patients who have shaped her journey.
50 Years of Service:
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Swee Khor, Clinical Nurse Specialist
Reaching an extraordinary half-century of service, Swee offered an inspiring reflection on a career grounded in compassion, resilience and commitment to nursing excellence. Her award was presented with admiration and gratitude by Lisa Cox.
Members of the Executive team also proudly presented awards to staff achieving 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years of service—each milestone representing a meaningful contribution to the strength and continuity of our health service.
Debra Bourne closed the ceremony by congratulating all award recipients and acknowledging the privilege of leading an organisation built on such a strong foundation of dedication.
“I am so proud to be part of an organisation with such a rich history, and whose staff are dedicated and passionate about caring and serving our community,” she said.
“Congratulations on providing another year of care, and we look forward to continuing the same level of care in 2026. As we move towards the end of 2025, on behalf of the Board and Executive team, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.”
Congratulations to all our recipients!
Featured image (L-R): Marion Alki, Deb Bourne, CE Northern Health, Gillian Walters and Swee Khor.
