Margaret is the Administration Officer at VMCH Providence Residential Aged Care, Bacchus Marsh. She has been recognised by the team at Providence as an outstanding employee, as part of Aged Care Employee Day.

Aged Care Employee Day is a national day to say thank you to the more than 365,000 dedicated people who care for and support around 1.3 million older Australians who receive care and services each year.

On 7 August, VMCH is celebrating our amazing aged care staff and saying thank you for the work they do every day.

Here we talk to Margaret about what it’s like to work for VMCH.

What do you enjoy about working at Providence?

The warm welcoming atmosphere, belonging to a second family and the residents and staff who make it a pleasure to come to work every day.

What do you love about your job?

I love working as part of a team and interacting with the residents, staff and meeting new families. I enjoy the challenge of learning new skills, even when I make mistakes.

Have any resident stories particularly touched you?

I am inspired by a 104-year-old resident who every morning applied her own makeup, did her hair, and dressed up with pearls. She had such a happy outlook, and she reminded me how important it is to remember that everyone has their own back story.

What do you think is important about the work you do at Providence?

I think communication is important, being welcoming, caring, and getting to know and engage with the residents and their families. I like to lead by example and greet each staff member every day and encourage them to attend functions and training sessions. Bringing staff together is really important as they are our biggest asset.

What are the highlights of your day?

Porridge Club. I come in early most days and sit at a different table and have breakfast with residents so I can get to know them. They really enjoy having staff to talk to, and it’s always a highlight of my day.

Which achievement are you most proud of?

I like to think that I contribute to the friendly, welcoming and positive environment at Providence. I really promote that we work as a team and we support each other.

What is it about VMCH’s care practice and values that resonates with you?

Being welcoming and respectful of all residents, staff across VMCH and service providers. I take my time with tour enquiries for prospective families because it’s important we show compassion for their loved ones and their stories.

What are you looking forward to at Providence in the next 12 months?

I am looking forward to moving in to our new building and facing the challenges ahead with increasing our numbers to 99 residents. I also can’t wait to start the new “Margaret Club” (all Margaret’s are welcome!)

What do you enjoy doing out of work?

I am the secretary of The Bacchus Marsh book club and involved with The Marshians Night Branch CWA and the Darley Neighbourhood House. I enjoy travelling with my family, catching up with my school friends, shopping with my two daughters and socialising with the odd glass of Sav Blanc!

What does being nominated for this achievement mean to you?

Initially I felt a bit embarrassed to be recognised, but now I feel very proud that others have noticed the work I do.