Written in the stars

It’s fair to say Nicala McGillivray’s career path to aged care was written in the stars.

Following a career break after the birth of her three children, Nicala was driving home after visiting her grandfather when she saw a billboard advertising a Certificate III in Aged Care. “I stopped the car, went inside and discovered the trainers had one spot left,” Nicala said.

“Fate intervened and it was meant to be. I started the course the following day.”

Nicala completed her training on the Sunshine Coast and following a brief stint as a private carer, arrived at Sundale, looking to make a difference. “I started on the floor at Rod Voller, but found my calling as a lifestyle coordinator,” Nicala said.

“Aged care is more than a job, because you need to give it your all, including your heart.

“The ability to positively impact somebody’s quality of life is so rewarding and is one of the main reasons I continue to work in aged care. “The residents become your family and you develop deep relationships built on trust, empathy and fun.

“I’m very big on choices and help empower my residents and their families to have choices.

“I also care for residents in the same way I would like to be treated if I was in their situation.”

Nicala has worked at Sundale for the past seven years and recently accepted a new challenge as roster coordinator.

“Irrespective of my role at Sundale, I’m here for the residents – that’s what it’s all about.”

Sundale’s enviable lifestyle programme features a range of activities, including Show Day, arts and craft sessions, bus trips, BBQs with family and friends, cooking classes, pyjama parties, ladies’ lunches and morning teas.