Recently, Mr. and Mrs. Pollifroni experienced a moment they thought was out of reach—attending their beloved grandson’s wedding. Thanks to the incredible Aged Care teamwork of Support Worker Maria, Case Coordinator Daisy, and our Rostering Team, this heartfelt wish became a reality.
It all began when their son reached out to Daisy, worried that his parents wouldn’t be able to join the celebration. With the whole family involved in the big day, he was unsure how their care needs and transport could be managed. Daisy listened with empathy and immediately took action.
Working hand-in-hand with the Rostering Team, Daisy coordinated every detail—from arranging transport to ensuring on-the-day care support was in place. Maria stepped in with her usual warmth and professionalism, making sure Mr. and Mrs. Pollifroni felt comfortable and cared for throughout the event.
Their arrival at the wedding was met with joy and emotion. Being part of such a special occasion meant the world to them—and to their family. Days later, their son reached out to express his deep gratitude, sharing how much it meant to have his parents present. This story is a beautiful reminder that Aged Care is about more than just daily support—it’s about helping people stay connected to the moments that matter most.
Training that connects workers to their community and fits around their jobs
Lucia Uriona arrived in Australia from Argentina in 1971. Her family, of Italian heritage, relocated for her father’s work and settled on a farm, far from the city life they knew.
“Everything was new. I spoke only a little English, so I had to start from scratch,” Lucia recalls.
Years later, while watching carers from SydWest Multicultural Services support her ageing mother, Lucia found her calling.
“They were kind, respectful. I thought—maybe I can do that too.”
SydWest Multicultural Services provides quality approved aged care services to assist people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to live independently – at home and within the community.
“It was perfect – just one day a week. I could keep working with SydWest while learning,” she says.
Mereline Murimwa-Rarami, Sydwest Aged Care Services Manager, shares her thoughts:
Mereline Murimwa-Rarami
“Macquarie Community College provides flexible training arrangements that allow our care staff to continue working while upskilling. This means SydWest can maintain uninterrupted service delivery to our clients, which is essential.
We’ve received positive feedback from SydWest care staff who have completed training with the College. We’ve also noticed an improvement in their performance, which tells us the training is both practical and effective.”
At Macquarie Community College, Lucia experienced hands-on training, not just theory.
“They teach differently. We practised real skills; things I use every day.
When you’re working, you don’t always realise the impact you have. Studying helped me see that what we do really matters.”
Learning, Friendship, and Ongoing Growth
Lucia’s learning journey brought more than skills – it gave her community.
“I made lovely friends during the course. I’m a big talker, and we all connected. We still keep in touch!”
Her trainer, Jas Khanooja, made a lasting impression.
“He explained everything so well. He really knows his stuff.”
With continued support from SydWest team, Lucia continues learning through in-house training like Dementia care.
“The Sydwest team offered so much. I love learning – it keeps me fresh, motivated, and connected to my community.”
Heather Hill, Community Services Lead at Macquarie Community College commented:
Heather Hill
Lucia’s story is truly inspiring – a powerful reminder of how meaningful and fulfilling a career in aged care can be, especially when grounded in empathy, cultural understanding, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
I’m so proud of the way SydWest and Macquarie Community College collaborate to support individuals in not only growing professionally but also finding purpose and connection.
Aged Care Career Is Where Lucia Belongs
Lucia isn’t thinking of slowing down anytime soon. Despite suggestions from her sister to retire, she’s staying put.
“I feel so comfortable in this job. I love the seniors – they’re beautiful people. Understanding their culture, their stories – that’s so important.”
For Lucia, aged care isn’t about money:
“You do this work for people. A kind word goes a long way. We all need that. When we retire, we can’t just sit at home. Aged care is a great way to keep going and do something meaningful.”
Inspired by Lucia? Start Your Own Aged Care Journey!
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build on your experience, Macquarie Community College offers flexible, practical Aged Care courses. With trusted partners like SydWest Multicultural Services, you’ll be supported to grow, connect, and thrive.
More than 400 people gathered together for a fun celebration in a joint Harmony Day and Seniors Week event this week, organised by SydWest.
The much anticipated event on our annual calendar saw people of all ages – from children to our seniors – come together for a morning of fun and educational activities.
Participants strapped on their dancing shoes, practiced Tai Chi, and experienced wonderful cultural, musical and poetry performances plus a cultural fashion parade while the children were kept busy with face painting and drawing.
In between the crowd was entertained with inspirational speeches and information sessions on water safety and healthy living.
‘Harmony Day and Seniors Week activities are a much-anticipated part of the community social calendar,’ said SydWest Settlement and Community Programs Manager Clement Meru.
‘It is a time to celebrate the true local spirit and sense of belonging within our proudly diverse community, learn more about each other and provide opportunities for new friendships to be forged across generations.
‘We are thankful to our guest speakers including Blacktown Deputy Mayor Chris Quilkey, Uncle Colin for the Welcome to Country, and all of our performers and educators for a fantastic celebration of what makes this community great.’
SydWest Multicultural Services encourages the Western Sydney community to recognise those who care for older Australians and say “thanks for caring” ahead of Aged Care Employee Day (ACED) on Monday 7 August 2023.
“We’re asking our community to take a moment and think about the quiet achievers and the superheroes who provide care with professionalism, compassion and dedication for our loved ones and give them the recognition they deserve,” SydWest’s Aged Care Services Manager, Mereline Murimwa-Rarami says.
“It’s been a particularly challenging eighteen months for aged care workers both in residential and home care services leaving many families and friends unable to visit loved ones in care for weeks on end.
“It often fell to the carers, the nurses and other staff to make up for that loss of family contact and become that crucial connection for frail and vulnerable older Australians.
“So, in the lead up to 7 August, we ask you to take time to think of the nurses, personal care workers, chefs, cleaners, gardeners, laundry staff, activities coordinators and administration staff when you next visit a loved one in aged care and say “thanks for caring”.
ACED will feature a #ThanksforCaring social media campaign with videos, stories and photographs that acknowledge Australia’s aged care workers.
SydWest Multicultural Services is pleased to advise that we have recently set up two new Seniors Social Support Groups for Cumberland that meet fortnightly in Granville.
Mondays 2pm – 4pm Wednesdays 10am – 12pm Workshop 1, Granville Centre 1 Memorial Drive, Granville
The SydWest Seniors Social Support Groups program organises a wide array of meaningful activities to empower our seniors to stay active, healthy and socially connected within the community at large, together.
Our new Cumberland Social Group will create opportunities for like-minded seniors to meet, socialise, bond on a regular basis and share their experiences, skills and knowledge with each other.
Eligibility Criteria: – 65 years & above – Have a Social Support & Community Transport Referral codes from My Aged Care – SydWest Team will be able to assist you to obtain the referral codes. – Living in Western Sydney
For more information on our Seniors Social Support Groups [SSSGs] please contact us on: Tel: 9621-6633 Email: drssteam@sydwestms.org.au
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