Nurse retires, promptly plans return

The Ocean Reef resident started work at Brightwater Oxford Gardens in Joondalup in 1990 and was described by Brightwater residential aged care manager Kerry Best as a “selfless team player”.

Mrs Elkington and husband John were well known among residents for organising annual Christmas activities, which she hoped to continue as a volunteer.

She was farewelled by colleagues at a high tea last week and said it was hard to leave the group because she “felt like part of the furniture”.

“Brightwater is a fabulous organisation and I’ve made so many beautiful friends, from residents to staff and volunteers,” she said.