News

After 45 incredible years of caring for our community, Albury Wodonga Health’s Julie Hines isn’t slowing down, this year she’s marking a milestone that reflects a lifetime of dedication, skill, and heart at Albury Wodonga Health (AWH). 

Julie began her journey at AWH inspired by her mother, a midwife at the former Wodonga Hospital. “I always loved caring for people,” she says. Reflecting on her first day at Wodonga Hospital, “It was overwhelming at first, but the girls took me under their wing. It didn’t take long to feel part of the team”, she added. 

What followed is, four decades of adapting to change, seeing the evolution of clinical practice, and countless patients cared for in Wodonga’s operating theatres.  “But the regional hospital feel is still there. Everyone supports each other.”  

“When I first started, things were very basic. The nurses had to do everything, from cleaning the theatre to sterilising the equipment and tools.” 

Her approach to nursing has never changed, with person-centred care always at the front of mind. “I really believe we’re an advocate for the patient, when they are under our care, we treat them like you’d treat your own. If they tell you they are cold, you make sure they are warm.” 

To those starting out, Julie offers this advice, “enjoy your work, be willing to learn, leave the place as you like to find it. Think forward, achieve further, keep learning and enjoy your time, because this is a great place to work.”  

Although she humbly insists, she doesn’t see herself as someone special - “I just do what I do and the best I can do” - her colleagues would say otherwise. From an outsider looking in, you can see the respect and admiration her team has for her. She’s not just a nurse, but the heart of the team.  

Albury Wodonga Health is proud to celebrate Julie Hines’ 45 years of service; a legacy that continues to shape our health service and community for the better.