FOR four decades, Esther Arulogun has been a familiar and caring presence at Ipswich’s Carinity Colthup Manor, providing compassionate nursing care to generations of elderly residents.
Her dedication spans a nursing career of over 50 years, with the past four decades spent supporting seniors at the aged care home.
Esther, who works night shifts, said the years had flown by.
“It’s most meaningful to support the elderly,” she said.
“We have a good team that works together and understands each other.
“The staff are like family – they’re very friendly and they appreciate me.”
Esther said she enjoyed every night with the residents.
“We share jokes, and even on tough nights, we work together to make it a good one,” she said.
Resident Margaret Smith praised Esther’s warmth and dedication.
“Esther is like family to all of us,” Margaret said.
“She’s always kind and caring, even when it’s a long night – we’re lucky to have her.”
Esther’s journey into nursing was inspired by her childhood health challenges in Hong Kong.
After completing her studies there, she won a scholarship to pursue post-graduate nursing studies in London and worked overseas for 15 years.
She later moved to Queensland, where she served at the Wesley Hospital and Ipswich General before joining Carinity Colthup Manor.
Carinity CEO Kevin Griffiths joined staff and residents for a morning tea to celebrate Esther’s milestone.
“Esther’s unwavering commitment and compassion have made a profound impact on the lives of so many residents and colleagues. She embodies the spirit of caring that defines Carinity,” Mr Griffiths said.
Executive Manager of Residential Aged Care Heidi Wiebe echoed those sentiments.
“Esther has been a wonderful blessing for Carinity and for the residents at Colthup Manor,” Ms Wiebe said.
