On Thursday, 21 November, we celebrated the dedicated service of nearly 1,800 Monash Health employees who have collectively worked a staggering 27,710 years.
Our longest-serving people were recognised by their peers and colleagues over three Length of Service Award ceremonies at the Southern Golf Club, Keysborough.
One of the event’s highlights was celebrating our longest-serving employee of the year, Francesca ‘Francis’ Faranda, who has been with Monash Health for 55 years. A most revered team member, Francis is a Food Services Assistant and has rightfully earned the name ‘Mama of the Central Production Kitchen’ at the Kingston Centre. Francis started as a laundry attendant in 1969 and worked there for 27 years before moving to her current role, which she has been in for the past 28 years.
The respect and affection with which her colleagues and the leadership team hold her are evident in this heartwarming video of Francis and her colleagues, which also premiered at the awards. It’s no wonder the response was a standing ovation and thunderous applause when Francis took to the stage to accept her award from Chief Executive Officer Professor Eugine Yafele and Monash Health Board Chair Dipak Sanghvi.
We thank you, Francis, and all our Length of Service Award recipients, whether celebrating in person on the day or from afar. Your commitment to serving our community has built more than a healthcare career; it’s built a legacy of caring.
