Maureen’s 25-year marathon

In the mid-eighties Maureen Mercer literally walked off the street in Woonona into a job at Guardian Pharmacy – and she’s been there ever since.

Last week at the age of 62 and after 25 years of work at the pharmacy Ms Mercer finally hung up her uniform and called it quits.

Her husband John Mercer followed suit the day after.

Also 62, Mr Mercer had been working as an electrician since he was a teenager.

The couple have a strong family history in the area, and have added significantly to local history as well, raising star Ironmen Darren and Dean Mercer.

Ms Mercer actually first worked at the Pharmacy 38 years ago, after Dean was born.

But she gave it up before returning for a second stint a quarter of a century ago.

Despite spending so long in the same job, Ms Mercer has loved every minute of her time at the pharmacy, especially, she said, the time she has spent with the customers.

“I love the customers,” she said.

“I love being out the front because everybody (who comes in) knows everybody and were all related I suppose.”

Mr and Mrs Mercer still swim together every morning and live in the same house they built when they were both 21 in Thirroul.

And while there is no chance of them moving out of their beloved home, the pair do intend to travel more now that they are retired.

They often make their way to the Sunshine Coast in Queensland to see their sons and grandchildren and plan to visit Ms Mercer’s family in America later this month.

The US jaunt will be the energetic grandmother’s first overseas adventure.

Owner and proprietor of Guardian Pharmacy Woonona Barry Hashemi said Ms Mercer has been an asset to the store.

“She’s been really friendly and is well known to the community and well liked by all customers and staff and it’s really sad to see her go,” he said.

“It’s been great to have her as part of our team and we all wish all the best with her retirement.”