Mrs Geary’s extensive contributions were formally recognised with the presentation by Mayor Rob Scott of the award from Southland District Council and the Waihōpai Toetoe Community Board on Saturday.
Mrs Geary, a registered nurse, has been an integral member of the Wyndham and Districts Community Rest Home since its inception in 1998, representing an impressive 28 years of voluntary service and commitment.
The longest-serving member of the board, her involvement equates to about 330 meetings and her passion for the aged-care sector has been integral in helping the facility grow and thrive.
During the presentation, Mr Scott paid tribute to Mrs Geary’s enthusiasm, leadership and compassion, which have contributed to the success of the rest-home.
"She has helped the organisation navigate the many challenges and the changes faced within the aged-care industry, always with a focus on providing the highest standard of care for older people in our rural community here," he said.
"This community wouldn’t be the same without people like Judy who lead by example, roll their sleeves up and get the work done. She is a very deserving recipient of this award."
Fellow committee member David Dumbleton recalled the early days of the rest-home’s development.
"From the very beginning, every member of the committee was heavily involved in the redevelopment project, particularly the two registered nurses on the committee, Judy Geary and Dorothy Marshall. They invested an enormous amount of time and thought into creating the facility we see today," he said.
"We wanted the residents’ rooms to be the very best we could afford, and Judy and Dorothy were at the forefront of that vision. They obtained large sheets of cardboard and marked out the actual dimensions of the rooms, including the bed, chair and table, always mindful that these rooms would become ‘home’ for our residents."
Other memories shared by board members included the countless hours Mrs Geary devoted to analysing rosters and helping the organisation respond to the significant financial and operational changes that occurred within the aged-care sector as a result of government reforms in recent years.
"Her thoughtful approach, practical expertise and steadfast commitment have helped the board navigate a path that enables the rest-home to meet its contractual obligations while remaining financially responsible and sustainable for the future," Mr Scott said.
"Judy’s contribution to the Wyndham and Districts Community Rest Home has been extraordinary. Through nearly three decades of service, she has demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism and care for both residents and staff. Her legacy can be seen not only in the facility itself, but also in the quality of care and sense of community it continues to provide." — Allied Media
