Alana Cope

When Alana Cope began her graduate year at GV Health in 1998, she never imagined she’d still be here more than 25 years later. Starting on the medical ward, she went on to spend eight years in surgical nursing before “seeing the light” and making the move to district nursing, a role she’s loved ever since.

“I started out on the road, visiting clients in their homes, and now I coordinate the service from the office,” Alana said.

“It’s busy and unpredictable, managing staff, taking referrals, supporting clients, troubleshooting, no two days are ever the same.”

For Alana, the diversity of the role and the connections she’s made are what make it special.

“When you’re on the road, you really get to know your clients and their families,” she said.
“Even now, I still recognise their voices when they call.”

Born and raised locally, Alana said her roots and relationships have kept her in the region.

“My family’s here, and the staff I work with are like family too,” she said.

“Many of us have been here for years and it’s a great team.”

Reflecting on her career, Alana said Community Health is where she’s found the most meaning.

“It’s diverse, rewarding and full of purpose,” she said.

“We back each other up, wherever we are, and our clients feel that.

“It’s a fun, fulfilling job, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

“I came for six months, and three years later, I’m still here,” she said.

“Shepparton is such a friendly, multicultural place.

“I love the mix of people and food from all over the world.”

Ivy joined GV Health’s kitchen team almost a year ago, helping prepare and deliver hundreds of meals to patients each day.

It’s work she finds deeply meaningful.

“When patients see me coming with their meal, they often smile and say, ‘Here comes the happy face!’” she said.

“I treat every patient with kindness and enthusiasm.

“I hope my smile makes their day a little brighter.”

She says the supportive and diverse kitchen team makes the job even more rewarding.

“Everyone helps each other,” Ivy said.

“There’s always laughter coming from the kitchen,” Ivy said.

Now, Ivy is looking to the future, she’s been accepted to study a Master of Social Work at Deakin University.

“GV Health has inspired me to keep helping people,” she said.

“I’m proud to serve our patients every day.”