Support work takes a special kind of talent. While practical skills and client specific training are essential, a person’s emotional intelligence is the difference between someone who “does support work” and is a “great support worker.” My career in the support work industry began by luck, curiosity and divine timing. After directing an International Sports Training Camp in America for 14 years I returned to Australia with my family. Covid disrupted my plans to set up a business – I wasn’t prepared to settle for something I wasn’t passionate about. I wanted an opportunity where I could utilise my skills and continue to grow. I began as an overnight support worker with Carer’s Collective. From day one, my vision was to get a foot in the door and an opportunity to move into a senior staffing and development role. A position where I could be part of cultivating team culture, developing new initiatives and supporting others to be their best. I completed a Bachelor of Arts (Business Psychology) and today as GM of Carer’s Collective, I enjoy deep satisfaction seeing my team succeed. From communication and relationship building, to being part of the team that trains and supports new staff, to seeing existing staff develop their skills, take on more responsibility or step into new roles. What I love about Carer’s Collective is their reputation, the family feel and the holistic approach we take when it comes to participant care. There really isn’t anything better than seeing participants have small wins. Seeing support workers encourage and assist them in setting goals, improve their lives, and reach milestones means collectively we are doing things right – and doing things well.

Everyone has a story. I've built a lot of patience in understanding why people are the way they are and respecting that. Being able to speak to different people and ride the mental challenges that comes with sport has aligned really well to my work at Carer’s Collective. My childhood was challenging. I had to look after myself from a young age, so I became really independent and my want to help other people in need definitely grew. Every hurdle and challenge I've been faced with has made me the person I am today. I am grateful to be in this line of work where I can genuinely make a difference. It’s the little wins I see participants get, the growth of them and our staff that’s so important to me. Everyone deserves to live the life that they want and if we can make someone’s day a little bit brighter by leading the way and showing opportunity, fun and exceptional care, then we can continue to build an environment where everyone feels safe to be who they are. I have never been in another job that I leave at the end of each day and say to myself, “I can’t wait to do this again tomorrow”. There is no better feeling knowing I have changed someone’s day purely by my actions, a conversation, a phone call, a text. Can’t live without – Water, veggies + steak Loves – Shopping and being in the sun Credo – You don’t know unless you try Dream day – Start with the gym, a swim and breakfast out. Going to the movies, an afternoon nap and then cook a really good dinner!

Caring is what I’ve always done. For my kids, then in my own business and in aged care. Working for Carer’s Collective is personal. I grew up with a brother who had very bad Epilepsy due to an MVA. I had a nephew who had brittle bones (osteogenesis imperfecta) and I also had an ailing mother who had a stroke and passed away. Carer’s Collective shares the same values and beliefs as me. When new crew join, I’m the first person you speak to and I employ all our staff for our clients. I try to understand our client’s needs and hire staff that best match them. This is not just a job – it’s a lifestyle. It’s about our clients and what happens in their day that makes a difference. If our clients and our staff are happy, then we are happy. It’s family. When I was a support worker for EO, I truly tried to make a difference in her life. We would have the most amazing conversations. A highlight for me was the day we tested out her beach chair on Palm Beach. Pushing her along the beach up and down the sand dunes, in the water – the thrill and delight in her eyes, I will never forget. Can’t live without – Olives and coffee Loves – Self-care, a facial or a massage Credo – Do what you do, do well or don’t bother Dream day - Go down to the beach at sunrise, a beach walk, swim and lie in the sun a little.

I have been with Carer’s Collective from the very beginning and have worked with almost every participant we have. I grew up in an area where you we’d always look out for each other. We were taught to always help out where you can. I have family members I had to help look after from a young age. My sport experience taught me teamwork, discipline and resilience, which are invaluable in caregiving. Being part of Carer’s Collective excites me – it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact on people's lives while being part of a supportive and dedicated community. It’s the gratitude and appreciation from the people I care for that keep me showing up each day. Knowing that I can make a difference in someone's life, even in small ways, is incredibly fulfilling. It’s humbling. After working in the industry and for carers, you realise how many things you might have taken for granted. The camaraderie and support from my colleagues also keep me motivated. One of my most memorable moments was helping someone take their first steps and walk again after all the specialists said he would have no chance of ever leaving bed again, let alone walk. Witnessing that transformation and knowing I played a part in it is something I will never forget. On the flip side, dealing with the emotional and physical challenges that come with caregiving can be tough, but these experiences have also made me stronger and more empathetic. Can’t live without –Fish and chips Loves – Rugby, hiking, nature Credo – Always help where you can Dream day –Being outdoors, it helps me relax and recharge