Sophie Conlon
After 30 years working at Orana, Mount Gambier/ Berrin local Ellen “Ellie” Campbell has signed out for the last time and begun a well earned retirement.
Ellen, who has an intellectual disability and is non-verbal, began working for the disability support provider in 1994 and gained experience in making nifty home gadgets as well as sorting and packaging.
Her sister, Jane Campbell said Ellen loved to work, but was now happy to retire.
“There is more time to do fun stuff now, [Ellen] can turn into a social butterfly,” she said.
“She loves Riding for the Disabled, Dream to Create and bowling every Wednesday night, swimming, one on ones with Kefi Support Workers where they go shopping and things.
“Feeding the ducks at the lakes, walking the Railway Lands and fishing down the river.”
Ms Campbell said Ellen’s retirement would also give her more opportunity to see her and wife Mel Strapps in Adelaide by travelling to see them on “the big bus”.
“She loves her bus trips to Adelaide and we love spending time with her,” she said.
Ms Strapps said 30 years in one workplace was an amazing effort.
“Most of us don’t last 30 years in one job, it’s unbelievable to be a part of it,” she said.
Through the 30 years Ellen has completed many projects including making door stops, dollies, fire lighters from recyclable materials, wine display boxes, and sorting and packing for Jolly Soles.
Ms Campbell said Orana had been big part of Ellen’s life and she was proud of her older sister.
“She is someone to look up to, I am super proud,” she said.
“Ellie has grown over the years and has made ever lasting friendships and gained skills to help with her daily life and learnt how to communicate and feel part of a work environment.
“Orana’s been a huge part of my life as well as hers, it’s been fantastic, joining in with Christmas shows and pageants and things like that.”
Ellen’s Orana colleagues and support staff marked her retirement on May 7 with an afternoon tea and gave her a special mug, which she was very excited about, as a parting gift.
Orana business service manager Lindsay Zappia came from Adelaide for the event and said Ellen was dedicated and had a strong work ethic.
Mr Zappia recounted stories of Ellen’s time at Orana and highlighted the achievements she had made through the years.
“Congratulations on 30 great years and hopefully you enjoy retirement,” he said.
