Occupational therapist receives Kelly Weire Memorial Award

Jaclyn Long, a member of Bendigo Health’s youth prevention and recovery care team, was presented with the award by Kelly’s parents Keith and Deborah on Thursday.

Ms Long said she felt privileged to receive the award.

“For a job I love that doesn’t feel like work, it’s nice to be recognised in such a meaningful way,” Ms Long said.

Kelly Weire was an occupational therapist at Bendigo Health, known for her energy and her determination to continuously better herself and her work.

Sadly Kelly died in a plane crash in Papua New Guinea in 2009.

The award was established in her honour to commemorate her achievements, as well as acknowledge the efforts of others in her profession.

The recipient also receives financial support for their professional development.

Bendigo Health director of allied health Sally Harris said Ms Long was chosen from a strong field of candidates, with more than 70 occupational therapists working at Bendigo Health.

She said Ms Long motivated the young people she worked with and strived to improve the performance of both herself and the service.

Ms Long said she loved the fast-paced nature of her work and working with youth.

Kelly’s parents Keith and Deborah established the award in partnership with Bendigo Health because they wanted to do something in memory of their daughter who loved learning and furthering her career.

Kelly had been in Bendigo for about two years before her death and Mrs Weire said she loved living and working in the city.

She said she and Mr Weire had received an “enormous” amount of support from Bendigo Health and they had formed lasting friendships over the years they had travelled to the city to present the award.

She said it was nice to see Kelly had not been forgotten, even among those who had not worked with or known her.

This year is the sixth the accolade has been awarded.