Lorraine Rock has devoted more than five decades to nursing, with the past 39 years dedicated entirely to aged care at Proserpine Nursing Home – a workplace she has fought fiercely to protect.
A proud union member since 1973 and co-founder of the Proserpine Nursing Home Branch in 2010, Lorraine has long been an advocate for improved staffing, better conditions, and the dignity and safety of elderly residents.
Her commitment was tested most profoundly in recent years, when the appointment of a temporary manager whose conduct was deemed inappropriate and disrespectful toward residents, families, and staff created widespread fear and declining morale across the facility.
Working quietly but relentlessly behind the scenes, Lorraine helped coordinate more than 84 written complaints to the facility’s Board of Directors – persisting through months of uncertainty, self-doubt, and emotional strain until the manager’s employment was terminated.
The outcome was a testament to what collective determination can achieve, and a moment Lorraine describes as feeling like a huge cloud lifting. Her branch, which she has continued to build and strengthen alongside fellow delegates, remains as active and committed as ever.
“There were many private moments where I was in tears, questioning whether I had the strength to see it through. But the sense of relief afterwards – it took several days to truly believe what we had achieved together. I have always been strongly union-minded, and I am very proud to stand by those values.”