Wednesday, 20 March 2019

Mr NORTHE: Lorraine Bartling’s significant contribution to welfare, health and local government in our local area is well understood. A nurse and Order of Australia Medal recipient, Lorraine was the longstanding driving force behind developing Traralgon’s first self-contained retirement units, Yallambee, built nearly 50 years ago, and subsequently the development of a not-for-profit aged-care hostel called Margery Cole, which opened in 1975. Both facilities have undergone expansion and upgrades, continuing to be enormous community assets today. The subject of a fascinating biography, the proceeds of Lorraine’s book go towards an annual nursing or social work scholarship awarded in her honour. Late last year Lorraine stepped down from volunteer service on the Yallambee board of directors after nearly half a century of leadership and achievements. The community and the residents and families that call Yallambee and Margery Cole home will forever be indebted to her remarkable legacy. Her late husband, Ken, would be so proud of this amazing lady.