15 June 2026

Four nurses returned to Modbury Hospital this month for a very special reunion, 40 years after they completed their training here.

Di Ollino, Lyn George, Claire Stratford and Julie Treicis were part of the first Re-entry Training Program in 1986. The program helped nurses update their skills and return to work after taking time off.
The group was especially interested to see the areas that were new since they left: the Specialist Ambulatory Rehabilitation Centre (SpARC), South Wing and Palliative Care.

A group of retired nurses returning to their old workplace
Image: Re-entry nurses, Di Ollino, Lyn George, Claire Stratford and Julie Treicis, visiting the new Modbury Hospital South Wing during the 40th anniversary tour.

“The new (Palliative Care) ward is something that was thought about many years ago,” Di recalls. Impressed by the kitchen and lounge, she was reminded of how difficult mealtimes were. “There was nothing special for the patients in their last days,” she shares. “Clear soup, jelly and ice-cream. Now families can prepare food and feel useful.”

One place that brought back particularly fond memories was the basement. Unlike the rest of the hospital, this area hasn't been renovated and still holds its 1970s charm. Claire became animated as she recalled the basement café serving ‘the best hot chips.’

Some of these women worked at Modbury Hospital for many years after their program and their dedication to caring has touched countless lives in the Northern Adelaide community. Their reunion reminds us that behind every nurse is a person with their own story.

In 1986, these women were finding their way back into a profession they loved through the Re-entry Training Program, which helped many restart their careers. NALHN has continued this tradition over the decades with many acclaimed programs that help nurses grow and develop their skills.