Nurse Marg: Margaret Dobson was awarded a Public Service Medal for her commitment to primary school health. Picture: Wayne Hawkins
AFTER more than 25 years as a primary school nurse, Margaret Dobson still wakes up with a smile on her face every day.
For her, helping children overcome sickness carries some of the greatest rewards.
And on Australia Day, the 64-year-old Croydon resident was presented with a Public Service Medal recognising her work with local children.
Ms Dobson said the award was a complete surprise.
‘‘I hadn’t any idea at all. It’s quite an honour and privilege,’’ she said.
‘Nurse Marg’, as her young clients know her, said her job constantly brought different challenges.
‘‘I come to work with a plan for the day, but it always leads you to different places,’’ she said.
‘‘It’s a feel-good job. Working with young children and their parents and teachers is just an honour.
‘‘I can’t be around children without a smile on my face ... parents are always very appreciative of the work you do for their child.’’
Nurse Marg was instrumental in establishing refugee and migrant health initiatives at Blackburn English Language School.
‘‘It’s quite challenging but very rewarding. Many of these kids have significant health and nutrition needs,’’ she said.
‘‘It’s a privilege to help them adjust to another culture and overcome trauma.’’