As an overnight support worker for three people with disabilities in one of the Hamilton homes managed by STAY Residential Services, she has worked 20-hour shifts.

Those long overnight shifts have allowed Ms Baillie to develop great rapport with the residents and the STAY staff team.

Now nearing 70, she recently retired from the work she said had been a rewarding passion.

Ms Baillie said she enjoyed helping people with disabilities and gained a liking for the work when she provided in-house respite for people with disabilities in the former Mount Rouse shire.

She started work with STAY, then known as the Mulleraterong Residential Services Association in 1994, as a casual before moving to a permanent role.

STAY chief executive officer Maree Sandford praised Ms Baillie’s dedication and commitment to supporting people with a disability.

Ms Sandford and the residents Ms Baillie cared for recently presented her with a 20-year certificate of appreciation to mark her retirement along with flowers and a gift.

STAY supports 16 people with a disability as well as providing respite for 47 people and supports other people with disabilities.

It is presently running a public appeal for $100,000 to renovate its new administrative and activities hub in Brown Street.