Echuca Regional Health held its annual Service Awards ceremony on Wednesday, November 19.
The ceremony recognises the hard work of both staff and volunteers and especially the time they have invested into the hospital.
ERH chief executive Carol-Anne Lever opened the event with a welcome to country before reading out the recipients of the awards.
Those who had achieved 10 years, 15 years, 20 years, 25 years, 30 years and 35 years of employment at the hospital were all recognised on the day.
While all recipients were worthy of celebration, it was an especially special day for Mark Ludeman, who has worked at the hospital for 40 years.
Mr Ludeman started at the hospital in 1985, one week after getting married and ready to begin training as a general nurse.
During the ceremony, ERH director of nursing Darren Clark shared a few words about Mr Ludeman’s time at the hospital.
“During Mark's time with the ERH, he's achieved many wonderful things,” he said.
“The things that have stood out the most are the relationships he's built, maintaining strong connections with staff and making sure his patients are cared for.
“He certainly enjoys seeing his former patients, who will remember him not just for his professionalism, but because he's made a difference for them during a difficult time in their life.”
Mr Ludeman has seen many changes over his 40 years and is currently an associate nurse unit manager in the surgical ward.