This year, NAIDOC Week marks 50 years of honouring and celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is also a time to reflect on the stories carried through families and communities – stories of hope, courage and resilience.
For team member Hannah, a proud Wonnarua woman from the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, those themes continue in the lives and memories of the people who shaped her, and in the way she now cares for others.
Hannah's connection to culture, people and Country is central to who she is, and helps shape the compassionate support she provides as a consultant with Dementia Support Australia (DSA), a service led by HammondCare.
At just 16, she stepped into one of the most significant roles of her life: caring for her grandfather when he needed 24-hour support. While many teenagers are thinking about school, friends and the future, Hannah made the decision to finish high school through remote learning so she could spend as much time with him as possible.
‘It was a privilege to care for him at a time when he needed it most,’ Hannah shares.
She continues: ‘He was my best friend. We shared stories, and laughed a lot together.’ He taught her lessons that still guide her today. ‘He showed me how to see past peoples’ differences, to lead with compassion, to wear my heart on my sleeve, and always mean what I say. I’m proud of him and I hope he was proud of me.’
What began as caring for someone she loved became an early understanding of how dignity, connection and compassion can shape the experience of ageing and end-of-life care – in turn shaping both her personal and professional values, and sparking an early interest in palliative and dementia care.
Another powerful influence in Hannah’s life has been her father, Lee. Born legally blind and living with dyslexia, he taught himself art and music, learning to play the guitar, harmonica and piano. He became well known for his artwork, creating pieces for the local schools and library. He was even awarded a scholarship in music and the arts, though his disability prevented him from completing his degree.
For Hannah, his story has been one of courage and perseverance. ‘He’s always been a deep inspiration to me,’ she says. ‘I often think of the hurdles and hardships he’s had to overcome. Dad’s helped me to understand how important it is to be thankful for my own blessings, and to strive for things that may seem out of reach.’
The influence of both her Pop and her dad can be seen in the work Hannah does today. Supporting people living with dementia and their carers across rural Queensland, she brings not only professional expertise but a deeply personal understanding of what it means to care for someone well.
‘Culture isn’t just something we do on special occasions,' she shares. 'We live and breathe it every day. We connect to Country, spend time with family and Elders in our communities, and go back to Country every year.’
‘Recognising who we are and where we come from also helps us understand each other, and gives meaning to our world, at whatever age, providing deep roots in a world that can be uncertain at times.’