Four decades of hospital service comes to an end for Jim

A well-respected member of the team, in the earlier stages of his career, Jim held roles including Garbage Person, Wardsman, Theatre Assistant, Gardener and Storeman.

His role as Clerk of Works, which started in 1982, saw him responsible for the construction and renovation of hospital buildings and wards for more than 20 years.

This role saw Jim become instrumental in major infrastructure projects at WWBH and across the broader District.

More recently, he moved into engineering roles, before becoming Maintenance Manager five years ago – a job that sees him look after department plant and hospital equipment to ensure facilities and services run effectively for staff and patients.

“As the old saying goes, you never stop learning, which has to be true for health,” Jim said.

Jim gave an insight into how his role has changed over the years and the impact it has had.

“From overseeing a construction gang of up to 30 staff, to engaging contractors to achieve a new build or renovation. And now to maintaining and repairs to plant, equipment and buildings with nine maintenance staff members for WWBH, and some maintenance staff at smaller facilities under my direction. I have enjoyed lots of variety in my work,” he said.

“Over the years, I believe my work has been very important for the benefit of the community of Wagga and district, with the improvement and maintenance at WWBH and other facilities in MLHD.

“I hope I have helped improve the facilities and conditions for patients and staff during my time working within MLHD. As I am getting older, I might need to use these facilities myself, but hopefully not for a long time!”

With Jim’s last day (4 July) fast approaching, he reflected on what he will miss about his work and touched on plans for retirement.

“I have worked with some incredible people over the years and will miss this, but it’s now time for someone else to take up the challenge,” he said.

“Working for MLHD means you get to enjoy the lifestyle that comes with living in a rural setting and not spending hours in traffic going back and forth to work,” he said.  

“I have made many long-life friends through working within MLHD, but my time has come to move on. I plan to spend time fishing, traveling, and most importantly spending time with my three-year-old granddaughter who lives in Geelong.”