General News
12 April, 2025
Lesley Robinson retires after 38 years of service
After nearly four decades of service, Lesley Robinson of Rainbow has retired from her role as a credentialed diabetes educator at West Wimmera Health Service.
Her final day was Friday, April 4, marking the end of an extraordinary 38-year career in nursing, with 25 of which she dedicated to diabetes education and became a trusted figure across the Wimmera region.
Ms Robinson began her nursing journey at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne at just 18 years old.
After marrying and relocating to Rainbow in 1987, she worked at the Rainbow Bush Nursing Hospital before joining West Wimmera Health Service.
Her passion for diabetes care began while supporting dialysis patients, many of whom developed complications from diabetes.
That experience led her to complete a postgraduate course in diabetes education in 2000.
Since then, she's been a tireless educator and contributed to the diabetes technology research group at St Vincent's Hospital in Melbourne, where her group researched around new technology for diabetes, including continuous glucose monitoring and insulin pump therapy.
"There have been so many changes in diabetes education over the years, especially with technology," she said.
"I've always believed in the power of tech to improve care, but access and affordability remain real issues."
Ms Robinson was named Diabetes Educator of the Year in 2023, recognising her leadership and dedication to the field.
Reflecting on her career, she shared the emotional side of retirement.
"I've worked with some of my clients for 25 years," she said.
"I've worked with them for most of my nursing career."
Ms Robinson also worked part-time diabetes educator with Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative.
She encouraged young people to consider the field.
"Nursing is a truly rewarding career," she said,
"Especially in small towns, you're not just helping patients, you're supporting your whole community."
She and her husband are now relocating to Adelaide, but Rainbow will always hold a special place in her heart.
"It's very bittersweet and I'll miss the town and community deeply," she said.
