AFTER a dedicated career spanning 44 years as a pharmacist, Northern Health’s Kathryn Brett has farewelled her beloved profession.
Ms Brett began her career in a clinical pharmacy setting across the wards and intensive care unit of the former Preston and Northcote Community Hospital, then moved to the Northern Hospital in Epping in the pharmacy dispensary and the outpatients area.
She said she had seen a lot of innovation and development over the past four decades, however the basics of pharmacy had not changed.
“When I first started, we all wore white starch coats and we had manual typewriters. No computers … if you made a mistake, you had to start again,” she said.
“When I was on maternity leave, the first computers came in. They were basic computers … I was quite scared about coming back because I hadn’t used a computer before.
“Technology has changed enormously. A lot has developed throughout the years and today we have many new positions around the hospital for pharmacists in specialised areas, which is fantastic.”
Ms Brett said she had enjoyed working at Northern Health and was proud of the contributions she had made.
“I’ve learned so much from my colleagues and I really enjoyed that. We’re a good team and we always try and go the extra mile to help people,” she said.
“Our job is often unseen, unheralded, but I think we do an important role and I’m extremely proud of that.”
Northern Health director of pharmacy Vinod Chellaram congratulated Ms Brett on her long-standing career.
“Congratulations on your retirement after an incredible 44 years of dedication,” he said.
“Your hard work and commitment have made a lasting impact on our team. Countless generations of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians have benefited from your teaching and guidance.
“Wishing you a wonderful new chapter filled with relaxation, joy, and fulfillment. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
