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Meet Sara, a 24-year-old Care Assistant who joined Ozcare’s Day Respite Centre, Townsville, in April 2025. Her journey to this role started with a bold lifestyle change, relocating from Kempsey on the New South Wales north coast with her entire family.” My parents travelled around Australia and absolutely loved Townsville,” she says. “Oh, we made the move together, my mum, dad, sister, nan, and my husband. I met my husband in 2021, and as an apprentice plumber, he had great opportunities up here.”
Before relocating, Sara completed her Certificate III in Individual Support at TAFE Port Macquarie. When she arrived in Townsville, she discovered the Care Assistant role at Ozcare, and everything clicked into place. “Moving to Townsville has been amazing. This job has helped me find my way in my career,” she shares.
From the moment she walked into the centre for her interview with Kelly, the Centre Coordinator, and Christine, the Diversional Therapist, Sara felt at home.
“Here has so much happening, so much energy. I knew it was the right place for me. I’d worked in aged care before, but I’ve always preferred one-on-one support, and that’s exactly what I get here.”
A role that fits into her life seamlessly
Working at the Townsville Respite Centre has not only been fulfilling, but it’s also aligned perfectly with Sara’s young family.
“The hours are friendly, and I get to pick my kids up from daycare with a big smile. Making our clients happy every day is a bonus.” Sara believes the role suits people who are patient, bright, bubbly, compassionate, and willing to have fun.
“Every client has a story, and some of them are just amazing. I’m just in awe.” Many of the centre’s clients live with dementia, and Sara sees supporting them as a privilege.
“My key responsibility is helping them make the most of their activities. And honestly, it’s a bit fun when the chef has a day off and I get to dabble in the kitchen too.”
A career with purpose
For anyone considering a role in care, Sara says the rewards speak for themselves. “You feel like you accomplish something every single day. Our clients are vulnerable, and being that trusted support person makes every day worth it.”
And the best part?
“I’ve never had a bout of Mondayitis since I’ve worked here. Walking through the door and seeing those warm smiles melts my heart.” With Kelly’s strong support, Sara is currently completing her Diploma of Community Services to deepen her understanding of dementia and build her future career. Her long-term dream?
“To become the Centre Coordinator one day. Don’t tell my boss, Kelly, but I’m gunning for her job!”
Kelly, however, fully supports Sara’s goals. “I’m so happy to support Sara in achieving her ambitions. She’s amazing with our clients and takes an interest in everything we do. She wants to learn more, she has the makings of a team leader, and I can see her going far at Ozcare. We’re lucky to have her.”
A 10/10 workplace
For Sara, Ozcare is more than a job.
“Ocare is 10 out of 10 for me. If you’re looking for a role as a Care Assistant – this is the place to be.”