Barbara Murray, or Barb, is retiring from her role as the intensive care unit associate charge nurse manager in January 2024, making the culmination of her incredible 50-year nursing career.
“A lovely long holiday coming up – why wouldn’t I be happy?” Barb giggles. Born in England and raised in Mosgiel, Barb’s fascination with the health profession began in high school. Starting her nursing journey in 1974 at the age of 18, Barb has worked in different areas, including surgical and medical wards, paediatrics, and orthopaedics before she settled in the ICU, also known as the old 5a at that time.
Barb working as a charge nurse manager in the old ICU in 2009. (Photo: supplied)
She was one of the early course students in Dunedin’s Aero Medical Retrieval course in the mid-1990s. Also known for her expertise in cardiac care, Barb is a true guru in matters of the heart.
One of the exciting highlights in Barb’s career was being part of the Southern aeromedical retrieval, teaming with Heli Otago. Barb was an original member of this crew who flew in a Bell Jet Ranger which could fit one patient, the pilot, one doctor, one nurse with the gear between their legs - not much room.
“It was a tiny helicopter serving the whole area but was a great help in transferring patients.” Barb fondly recalls.
Otago’s first aeromedical chopper, a Bell JetRanger (Credit: Heli Otago)
This pioneering aeromedical retrieval team laid the foundation for today’s air ambulance service in Otago and Southland. The invaluable experience gained during those times paved the way for the addition of more advanced helicopters and the involvement of aero paramedics. Barb was passionate about this service and she flew frequently until a few years ago.
Barb with her colleagues on a retrieval mission at Milford Sound. (Photo: supplied)
ICU service manager Shayne Wylie says that Barb’s contribution to the ICU team over her years of service has been immeasurable.
“Barb has been one of our valued leaders through the evolution of ICU from its humble beginnings and small team to the state we find ourselves in today with over 100 staff. Thank you, Barb, for all you have done for our ICU team, our patients and the community we serve.”
Looking back on her journey, Barb says it has been “an interesting journey that brought me here today when we started with three nurses in the ICU.”
“ICU has been my life for the last 40 years. I will miss the people I work with.”
Enjoy your well-deserved retirement, Barb! We sincerely thank you for your huge contribution to the Southern community.
