Kerry Down

When Kerry Down joined GV Health in 1987, she began as a surgical ward nurse. A year later, a six-month secondment to district nursing changed the course of her career.

“I loved it straight away,” Kerry said.

By 1989, she’d taken on a permanent role and never looked back.

Over the years, Kerry has worn many hats, including Diabetes Educator, Home Nursing Services Coordinator, and even Nurse Unit Manager. In the early 2000s, she helped pioneer one of Victoria’s first home-based diabetes education programs, an initiative that kept countless people out of hospital and in their own homes.

Kerry said the appeal of district nursing has always been the people.

“It’s holistic care,” she said.

“Not just treating a condition, but being welcomed into someone’s home and becoming part of their support network.

“It’s incredibly rewarding.”

Living and farming locally, Kerry said her connection to the region has been a big part of why she’s stayed.

“This community means a lot to me,” she said.

“I’ve always felt supported to learn, grow and take on new challenges.

“The job satisfaction has been really good.”

From hospital wards to country roads, Kerry is proud of almost four decades of service, a career built on compassion, innovation and genuine connection.