High achievers announced as winners in HESTA Aged Care Awards

The annual national awards this year celebrated a number of individuals and initiatives for their innovation and excellence in aged care.

HESTA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Debby Blakey says the three winners demonstrate the vital role aged care professionals and organisations play in creating positive experiences for their clients and in supporting growth and recruitment in the sector.

“This year’s winners have challenged the status quo and created innovative services and programs that rise to the challenge of providing high-quality care to the growing number of people in our community,” Ms Blakey says.

“Through their work they are supporting innovation and growth in the sector – ensuring that the highest standards of care are delivered and that their clients continue to participate in fulfilling and engaging life experiences.

“Through the Awards, we are proud to be able to recognise their outstanding work.”

The three winners were selected from 12 national finalists for their exceptional contribution to improving the quality of life for older Australians across three Award categories:

Team Innovation Award – Aged Care Indigenous Induction Program, Crest NT recognised for their outstanding work in developing culturally appropriate induction resources that support the recruitment and retention of Indigenous aged care employees across the Northern Territory.

Individual Distinction Award – Gordon Manuel, Mark Moran Group was awarded for his outstanding work in creating innovative aged care dining and culinary experiences for residents. Passionate about creating nutritious and tasty meals, Gordon has developed numerous culinary and dining experiences to support residents in celebrating and enjoying their lives .

Outstanding Organisation Award – Arts Collaboration, Southern Cross Care (SA&NT) received the award for partnering with local Adelaide arts festivals to deliver an entertaining, engaging and practical arts program for residents and their families.

The winner of each category won a share in the $30,000 prize pool.

Southern Cross Care (SA&NT)’s Director of Operations Jo Boylan has welcomed the award and says the program is about healthy ageing and positively influencing a person’s wellbeing and that the prize money will be well spent.

“When you think about art, you think about the heart – it really helps our residents have fun, everyone feels they can express themselves, and everyone has a purpose and a sense of achievement,” Ms Boylan says.

“With the award money we’re going to establish an arts centre, this will attract volunteers who will also do art.

“This will be established and funded using the money and coordinated through our Southern Cross Care artists in residence.”

Crest NT is planning to use their prize money to develop an additional resource card to add to the kit with a focus on consumer directed care.

Program Director Sally Morris says they will consult with the providers that were involved in the development of the original resource to gain an understanding about what information is required.