1,660 years of service recognised at Resthaven Staff Appreciation Awards

On 4 July 2025, more than 100 Resthaven staff were honoured for their long service milestones at the annual Resthaven Staff Appreciation Awards luncheon held at the Adelaide Pavilion.

The Resthaven Staff Appreciation Awards, held every year, celebrate staff who have completed service milestones over ten years.

Topping the 2025 awardee list are three long-serving staff members who have all been with Resthaven for more than 40 years – Ann Fox (Resthaven Craigmore), Georgina (Gina) Pedoulias (Resthaven Mitcham) and Leonie Mules (Resthaven Port Elliot).

‘It’s hard to believe it’s been 40 years,’ Ann says. ‘It’s so overwhelming, but it’s wonderful to be acknowledged [at the awards]. I work at both Resthaven Craigmore and Resthaven Paradise and enjoy working with all my colleagues. I’ve seen a lot of change over the years, but it’s always been such a pleasure to look after the residents.’

Leonie and Gina agree.

‘Resthaven has been great to work for over the years,’ Leonie says. ‘Now, I work just two days a week and I’m enjoying it very much. I work with really good staff.’

‘I enjoy speaking with and caring for residents,’ Gina says. ‘I always put in the extra effort – and I know they appreciate it.’

All up, this year’s awardees had completed 1660+ years of combined service.

Staff who have been with Resthaven for 30 years or more (the ‘30+ Club’) are invited to the awards each year. This year, employees Anne Drage (Resthaven Leabrook) and Lorraine Cobb (Resthaven Paradise) joined this group. Special mention also goes to Leeanne Pugh (Resthaven Marion Community Services) who this year marked 35 years of employment with Resthaven.

The Resthaven Staff Appreciation Awards luncheon is always a flagship event on the Resthaven calendar and is attended by staff, managers, Executive, and Board Members. 

Board President, Mark Porter, and CEO, Darren Birbeck, presented award recipients with an appreciation gift and certificate recognising their service.

Regional staff will be honoured with their own events in Mount Gambier, Murray Bridge, and the Riverland, which will also be attended by Mark and Darren.  

‘The Resthaven Staff Appreciation Awards is a great opportunity to thank our staff for their hard work and dedication,’ Darren Birbeck Resthaven CEO says. ‘At Resthaven, we are committed to recognising our staff, and we thank those people who have devoted a significant part of their career and lives to Resthaven. Congratulations to all long-serving Resthaven staff! Your tireless work and loyalty enable Resthaven to work together with the older people who invite us into their lives, providing high quality aged care services with dignity and respect. Thank you.’

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