Over the past two weeks, Warrigal has acknowledged and celebrated the outstanding work of their employees across NSW and the ACT with two special Service Award events. These events are held each year to recognise the time, effort and dedication that our employees devote to Warrigal, and their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of older people. This year, we had employees being recognised for various milestones including 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and even an amazing 50 years of service!

The celebrations kicked off in the Illawarra at the Shellharbour Civic Centre, which welcomed employees, family members and fellow staff from across our Northern locations. Attendees enjoyed delicious snacks and refreshments, whilst cheering and singing as our award recipients danced their way down the runway.

Warrigal CEO, Jenni Hutchins, joined by Chair of the Board, Sophie Ray, and our Executive Team leaders, congratulated employees as they reached the front of the room.

In her address, Jenni acknowledged the effort, time and care that our staff give every day to support our older people, and the importance of recognising this amazing commitment.

“Everyone receiving an award today knows what it takes to work in aged care. You’ve given your time, but more than that, you’ve given your heart. You don’t just provide care – you create community, build relationships that last, and let families be families.

She continued, “Whether you’re alongside our residents every day or keeping things running behind the scenes, you are the heart of Warrigal. As we say, ‘You are the difference’, and thank you for all that you do.”

A special mention is deserved for our long-serving employee, Paula, who was recognised at this event for 50 years of service with Warrigal. Starting with IRT in Wollongong in 1976 and continuing with Warrigal when the location was acquired in 2022, Paula has created an environment where everyone, residents and staff alike, feel valued and heard. Thank you, Paula, for your dedication, leadership and humility!

This week, employees from our Southern regions were also recognised for their various years of service, with a celebratory event at the Hellenic Club Woden in Canberra. The space was transformed into a party scene, with balloons, music, refreshments, and the famous runway rolled out to set the tone. Supporters and fellow award recipients cheered on as our long-serving employees made their way to the front to accept their achievements.

Nicky Sloan, Warrigal Board Member, alongside Jenni and our Executive team, shared her appreciation for our employees in her address.

“When the Board looks at years of service like the ones in this room, we don’t really see a number. We see trust. Every year you’ve stayed is a year you chose Warrigal, and a year an older person and their family were able to count on you.”

She continued, “On behalf of the Board, thank you. For your commitment, for the standard you hold, and for the difference you make to the people who matter most.”

Each event brought with it an exciting energy, and there were smiles all around as employees celebrated with their loved ones. To all our recognised employees, thank you for your service – the years of lives touched, families supported, and communities made stronger. You help to bring our vision to life every day, and for that, we thank you.

Explore our image gallery of the events below!