At 15, Matt decided to leave school. Enrolling in a Certificate in Aged Care with a local employment agency, he was matched with us at HammondCare Woy Woy, in his hometown, for his work experience. Matt loved the experience so much he applied for a job with HammondCare.
Fast forward twelve years and after a number of roles, Matt is now Maintenance Manager at Woy Woy site - his dream job!
Starting at HammondCare
When I left school, I never thought I’d be working only five minutes from home in a job I love, and still be here 12 years later.
Skye, who is now the Residential Manager at Woy Woy, made me feel welcome from day one – and soon became a mentor for me. I moved quickly from a casual position to a permanent position in the care team at one of the cottages.
I loved that no two days were the same, and I really enjoyed being with residents and working closely with my team members - and still do! Over the next ten years, I went from working daytime shifts as part of the team, to team leader for the night duty team.
Pivotal moments
In 2019 my dad died from liver cancer at the age of 55. I nursed him at home and HammondCare were really understanding during that difficult time – giving me the space I needed to be with him. I went back to working casual shifts, which I was able to fit around caring for Dad. The experience of supporting my dad in his last days really inspired me, and I was able to use that experience when supporting residents.
After my son Parker was born, I began to see the Aged Care opportunities in front of me - to build my career at HammondCare.
Julie, another mentor, recommended me for a secondment as a workplace trainer, which evolved into a permanent position as a workplace coach - If you told me five years ago that I would be an educator, helping others to make the most of their aged care opportunities, I wouldn’t have believed it! I ran orientation days for new team members and was honoured to receive a staff award during this time.
Landing my dream job
I’ve always eyed off the maintenance position - I’m a natural tinkerer at heart, and love fixing things.
When the position became available, and I applied, Skye was my referee. I’ve only been in the role for a short time, but it’s been a huge learning curve. I get great satisfaction in what I do, while still being connected with the residents.
My previous knowledge and experience come in handy. For example, if I see a resident who needs assistance, I know I have the confidence and skills to provide support.
Coming full circle
During my time as a workplace coach, Julie and I developed a close relationship with a local high school. Students studying their Certificate III came to us for work experience, just like when I started with HammondCare. We’ve gained some great employees from nurturing that relationship.
A special moment for me was when we were invited to attend their graduation ceremony.
It was the same school I had left at 15.
HammondCare and family
For anyone reading this who is thinking of joining HammondCare, my advice is to come along for the ride! Our Mission is what guides us, we’re all on the same page - it makes our jobs easier from my experience. We look out for each other, like family. We’re closely connected to the local community, and I am never too far away from my beautiful partner Cheniesse and my son Parker.
I’m so happy with where I am in my professional life – though I wouldn’t say no to being Residential Manager one day. You never know!
Discover your next career move at HammondCare here
