General News
6 March, 2024
Chef farewells lodge
After 19 years of dedication at Cooee Lodge, local chef Marissa Raines will be moving on.
After 19 years of dedication at the Cooee Lodge, local chef Marissa Raines will be moving on. Mrs. Raines began volunteering at the Lodge back in 2006 when her youngest child Shanttel began kindergarten. At first, her role was to help then Diversional Therapist Ros Howard with running activities, organizing outings, and hosting barbeques and games. She was soon offered the chance to begin official employment.
Mrs. Raines began in personal care, then quickly moved into a cooking oriented role where she flourished. She continued to occasionally work as a kitchen hand for other cooks, and help with housekeeping. Cooking and caring for the residents was her “passion,” commented Mrs. Raines. The residents loved seeing Marissa’s passion for her work, always going above and beyond to cook homemade meals and desserts. Her handmade dumplings and creamed rice were always favorites.
Her bright and bubbly character never failed to put a smile on the residents faces. She sang and danced her way around the homes and as she did housekeeping, brightening everyones day. Her big heart will be missed by all.
“It won’t be the same without her,” one resident stated. “We’re all going to miss her,” said another. Mrs Raines struggled to say goodbye – it was too emotional for her – and wants the residents to know that “I’m sorry, I will miss you all and I love you all. When it doesn’t hurt so much I’ll come back and say goodbye.” She would also like to thank all the friends at Cooee Lodge for the kind words and gifts at her farewell, and to also thank all those who sadly could not make it. Mrs Raines said she would be forever grateful for her time at Cooee Lodge, and for all the friendship she had found over 19 great years.
