Janine Rofe - Merit Award

Janine Rofe’s unwavering and tireless efforts over the past year to minimise the risks of Coronavirus to the Benalla Rural City have seen Benalla and district recognised as one of the most vaccinated communities in the state.

Janine is employed at Benalla’s Church Street Surgery, a practice that employs 13 doctors, 16 nurses and 12 administration staff. At the onset of the pandemic it was evident that Janine’s skill set, as both Practice Manager and a nurse would be invaluable in responding to the crisis. There have been countless alterations, shifting infection control guidelines and vaccine eligibility over the course of the pandemic, to which Janine ensured the practice responded appropriately and staff were updated accordingly.

When the Federal Government announced the vaccination would begin in February 2021 under Janine’s guidance Church Street surgery held its first clinic on Saturday 27 March and vaccinated 500 patients on that day. The surgery has held a vaccination clinic every Saturday since and has administered over 16,500 vaccinations to the local community and surrounding areas.

Benalla has continually been listed as having one of the highest vaccination rates in the state. Janine has been instrumental in achieving this status, always going above and beyond.

Janine has also been involved in the Benalla Rural City community through netball, tennis and MND.