Meet Danielle, Senior Mortuary Technician
Learn more about our Senior Mortuary Technician at Alice Springs Hospital.
Danielle Workman has one of the most unsung yet appreciated roles at Alice Springs Hospital as Senior Mortuary Technician.
Once a loved one has sadly passed away, Danielle works to make sure they are still cared and looked after, and also supports the family at the most difficult times of their lives.
“I want people to know that their loved ones are respected and cared for after they have passed,” Danielle said.
“We work with the families so they know their options about ‘where to from here’, and ensure they have support to get through the difficult time.”
Danielle said that at the Alice Springs Hospital mortuary she works with the palliative care unit, funeral homes, and the families once they are ready.
“Sometimes the family will dress their loved ones in special clothing, or provide a special memento for them to have with them. They will get to say goodbye in a way that is respectful of the family and the deceased person,” she said.
For Aboriginal families, this can also involve performing cultural traditions, or preparing for ceremony which may come later on.
Danielle said the job isn’t something just anyone can do, but she finds the work really interesting, and says her previous work at a funeral home meant she was able to help families navigate the process.
“It’s a lot less daunting for families when we can be there to help and support them,” she said.
“It’s already a hard time, and people are often not thinking straight.
“We let them know it’s ok.”
Thank you for providing valuable support to our community, Danielle.
If you are considering a career in health, visit https://healthjobs.nt.gov.au/
