The Golden Plains Shire community is in mourning following the death of a beloved local figure, Wendy Hellebrand, who passed away on May 9, 2024, at the age of 80. Described by many as the 'Florence Nightingale of the Golden Plains', Hellebrand was celebrated for her decades of dedicated service as a nurse and tireless volunteer work.
A Life Dedicated to Care and Community
Wendy Hellebrand's remarkable life of service began in the United Kingdom, where she was born and later met her future husband, John. The couple emigrated to Australia in 1973, settling first in Melbourne before making their home in the Geelong and Golden Plains region. Her nursing career was extensive and impactful, spanning roles at the Geelong Hospital and later as a district nurse for the former Shire of Bannockburn.
Her commitment went far beyond her professional duties. Hellebrand was a cornerstone of local volunteer organisations, dedicating her time and energy to the Lions Club of Bannockburn and District, the Bannockburn Bush Nursing Hospital, and the Geelong Multiple Sclerosis Society. Her compassionate nature made her a familiar and comforting presence throughout the community.
Remembered for Kindness and Selflessness
Friends, family, and community members have flooded tributes remembering Wendy as a kind, selfless, and incredibly strong woman. Her daughter, Tania, poignantly shared that her mother was 'loved by all' and possessed a rare strength, having survived polio as a child. This early challenge seemed to fuel a lifelong resilience and deep empathy for others in need.
Her legacy is one of quiet, unwavering service. Colleagues recall her professionalism and care on the nursing front, while fellow volunteers speak of her reliability and generous spirit. She wasn't one to seek the spotlight; instead, she found fulfilment in the tangible help she could provide to neighbours, patients, and community causes.
A Lasting Legacy in Golden Plains
The passing of Wendy Hellebrand has left a significant void in the Golden Plains Shire. Her story is a powerful testament to how one individual's dedication can profoundly shape and support a regional community. She embodied the spirit of rural Australian resilience and neighbourly support.
A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held at the Bannockburn Funeral Centre, 124 High Street, Bannockburn, on Friday, May 17, 2024, at 2:00pm. The service will provide an opportunity for the many people whose lives she touched to come together and honour her memory. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, those wishing to pay their respects consider a donation to a charity of their choice, reflecting Wendy's own charitable nature.
Wendy Hellebrand is survived by her loving husband John, her children Tania and Mark, and her grandchildren. She is remembered not just as a family matriarch, but as a true pillar of her community—a nurse, a volunteer, and a friend whose impact will be felt for years to come.
