John Hobday Honoured with 2025 Alpine Health Bernece Delany Volunteer Award
22 May 2025
Photo: Andrea Herrin (DCO Mt Beauty), John Hobday (Bernece Delany Volunteer Award recipient 2025), Rhys Gloury (Alpine Health CEO)
Alpine Health is proud to announce John Hobday as the recipient of the 2025 Bernece Delany Volunteer Award, recognising his outstanding commitment, generosity, and service to Alpine Health and our local community.
John volunteers with our Maintenance team at Alpine Health Mount Beauty and works to help establish and maintain the gardens in the Kiewa Valley House yard.
John’s dedication to the upkeep, comfort, and wellbeing of residents, patients, and staff is evident in everything he does. Each week, he runs every tap in the facility to help maintain safe water quality — a simple but crucial task, particularly for areas with infrequently used pipes.
John plays a vital role in a wide range of maintenance and improvement projects. He is regularly seen assisting with tasks such as painting, installing hand sanitiser holders, and repairing furniture. Most recently, he worked closely with Maintenance Supervisor Martin to upgrade the Pharmacy storage room. Together, they removed old shelving, patched over 100 holes in the walls, repainted the space, and installed new shelving units — significantly improving the functionality of the area.
Beyond his practical contributions, John is also known for bringing beauty and joy to the facility. Throughout the long summer season, he shares magnificent dahlias from his garden, brightening the days of staff, residents, and visitors alike.
John and his wife Fran were instrumental in establishing the sensory garden at Kiewa Valley House — a cherished space that enhances the wellbeing of residents living with dementia. The couple continues to care for and maintain the garden, despite the unique challenges of working within an aged care setting.
Highly valued by staff, John takes the time to connect with team members in the tea room and greet residents by name, fostering a strong sense of community and care.
“John’s commitment to Alpine Health and the time he gives so generously is truly commendable,” said Rhys Gloury, CEO Alpine Health. “He brings a wonderful mix of practical skill, warmth, and community spirit that embodies the very essence of the Bernece Delany Volunteer Award.”
The Bernece Delany Volunteer Award honours individuals who show exceptional dedication to Alpine Health and the Alpine community. John Hobday is a shining example of this spirit, and we are delighted to formally recognise his contributions.
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