She then moved interstate, nursing in Alice Springs, Bundaberg and Mt Isa before returning to Victoria and working in Melbourne, St Arnaud and Warracknabeal. In 1981 Ms Summerhayes moved to Stawell and started working in what she referred to as the ‘old section of the hospital’.
“One end of the section was the female ward and the other end the male ward, with six beds to a bay and there was a communal shower in between,” she said.
Ms Summerhayes transferred to MacPherson Smith in September 2003 where she reaffirmed her passion for looking after the elderly.
MSRC community manager Tess Beniga said Ms Summerhayes’ dedication was exceptional.
“Even after five decades of nursing, Shirley still works full time, almost never takes a sick day and has to be encouraged to take annual leave,” she said.
“She is just so committed to her colleagues and the care community. She clearly loves what she does.”
Ms Beniga said Ms Summerhayes had to adapt to many changes in the industry throughout her career, and had always shown a willingness to learn and adjust.
“A great example of this was when computers were introduced to nursing and Shirley didn’t know how to turn one on, let alone use it,” Ms Beniga said.
“She admitted to not being very tech savvy, but she was soon sending emails and completing all the necessary documentation without missing a beat.”
Ms Summerhayes said she loved going to work every day and socialising with her colleagues and the residents.
“I don’t have any immediate thoughts of retirement, but I guess it will have to happen eventually,” she said.
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