Time for cake and celebration at Dunolly residential community
It was tea and cake all round for staff and residents at Dunolly Residential Community recently thanks to a competition win in the aged care sector.
Director of Nursing Donna Bell was named one of five winners in a state-wide competition run by the Public Sector Residential Aged Care Leadership Committee.
The competition was part of this year’s Aged Care Employee Day celebrations where aged care employees were invited to submit 100 words describing ‘why I love my job’.
“I didn’t hesitate in entering. The words came out so easily – I love what I do as I get to lead a team of the most amazing, committed people,” said Donna.
In her entry, Donna explained how her team is guided and motivated by one of the organisation’s core values of togetherness.
“Together as a team, we embrace the Montessori Philosophy, to ensure we know our residents, not only since their arrival to the facility, but who they were as a person throughout their life journey,” she wrote.
“We make a difference by appreciating and understanding the resident’s needs and interests and ensuring we enable them to have choice and control over the decisions they make.”
“I love my job because the staff are not only carers but also friends. They have built amazing relationships with the residents and I am so proud to work with them.”
Donna was delighted to hear about her win at an industry event in October. Being a true team player, Donna held off organising the afternoon tea until a colleague returned from holiday.
“It was important to me to have as many of the team there as possible, so we could all celebrate together,” she said.
Donna was awarded $250 to spend on the afternoon tea and so was able to place a sizeable order with the renowned Dunolly Bakery.
To help ensure as many staff and residents could enjoy the food as possible, Donna organised pies and pasties for lunch, followed by a delectable afternoon tea.
True to her care and commitment to her team and the residents, Donna didn’t take much time to pause and celebrate. She remained on her feet, busy ensuring everyone had a cup of tea and slice of cake.
“I am so lucky to do this job and work with people I call my family,” said Donna.
Dunolly Residential Community is one the three residential communities managed by Maryborough District Health Service. The five star rated facility has 19 single rooms, surrounding bushlands and beautiful gardens. It features modern amenities and equipment, with high quality meals and fun activities undertaken in communal living areas.
Photo captions:
- Donna is named one of 5 state-wide winners. Left to right: Jenni, Donna, Jaimee
- The Dunolly team celebrates Donna’s win.
Back row: Sonia, Jenni, Jaimee, Heather, Julie, Emma, Debbie, Lilly
Front row: Laurie, Donna, Stacey