To our aged care heroes: Thanks for Caring

Around 1.5 million older Australians rely on the kindness, expertise and commitment of others to deliver their aged care support.

Thursday 7 August is Aged Care Employee Day (ACED) – an annual event organised by national industry association Ageing Australia – aimed to celebrate aged care workers and volunteers who devote their time across residential, home and community aged care. 

Sonya Smart, CEO of Catholic, for-purpose aged and disability organisation VMCH, is encouraging people to get behind ACED and say #ThanksForCaring to nurses, lifestyle staff, personal care assistants, allied health professionals, home care staff, hospitality teams, cleaners, admin staff, pastoral carers, and more.

"ACED is a time to reflect on the tireless efforts made by our aged care workers and volunteers each and every day, and thank them for their resilience, passion and commitment as they care for our aging community,” Sonya says.

VMCH is proud to share that two members of our aged care team members have received national recognition. VMCH volunteer Carol Pickering and At-Home Aged Care Senior Case Manager Asmir Huzejrovic have been named national finalists in the 2025 You are ACE! Awards. Organised by Ageing Australia, these awards acknowledge aged care workers and volunteers across the country for their commitment, compassion, and professionalism.

Carol has been volunteering with VMCH for 46 years, brightening countless lives with her warmth and creativity, particularly at our Berwick aged care residence.

While Asmir’s calm approach and deep understanding of aged care challenges have earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike. 

Winners of the You are ACE! Awards will be announced on ACED on August 7.

Meanwhile, Sonya says ACED is also an important time to shine a light on the often unsung aged care heroes – those whose roles may not always be visible to the public, but whose impact is deeply felt. 

“Whether it’s a Food Services Assistant offering a warm meal and a listening ear, or our laundry and cleaning staff ensuring dignity through care – their work matters,” she says.

Across VMCH, aged care workers have eagerly expressed their appreciation for colleagues. 

Personal Care Worker Aylin Altinors is described as “calm and supportive” by her colleague Donela Perry. 

“Aylin can be seen mentoring other staff and sharing knowledge. The residents enjoy interacting with her. She takes the time to be engaged and brighten their day.” 

Cook Rachel Bugeja has worked at VMCH’ s Corpus Christi Community Greenvale, a home for older, marginalised men, for 14 years. 

Her colleague says: “Rachel takes pride in every dish she serves. She learns residents’ likes and often bakes cakes, knowing everyone's favourites. If someone isn't coming down to meals, she will send them something special (to their room), making them feel valued.” 

Allied Health Team Leader Alajeeta (Ally) Patel says her journey into aged care was “driven by a deep respect for the wisdom and resilience of older Australians”. 

"Ageing should be celebrated, not feared,” Ally said. “What drew me to aged care – and keeps me here – is the chance to combine strategy with heart. Every spreadsheet, meeting, and service plan is a step toward improving someone’s day (even if they don’t know I’m behind the scenes). What I enjoy most is knowing that the work we do helps older people feel seen, supported, and valued.” 

To Carol, Asmir, Aylin, Rachel, Ally and all the amazing aged care workers across Australia, we say #ThanksForCaring.