Becoming a personal care assistant at Boandik St Mary’s was a life-changing event for local resident Ellen Feast.

Ms Feast joined the Boandik team after being offered a traineeship in December last year, but her journey with the non-profit organisation did not begin there.

“My dad was a resident at Boandik Lake Terrace a few years ago and I watched how the staff took care of him,” Ms Feast said.

“I also volunteer at Boandik St Mary’s and decided it was time for a life change. I started my traineeship with the help of my family, with their support and encouragement.”

Ms Feast was offered a one-year traineeship to complete Certificate III in Aged Care, with the new role representing a “wonderful” shift in her line of work.

“I have always worked in the food industry,” she said.

“So becoming a personal care assistant is very different and has been a wonderful new career change for me.”

Ms Feast said she had received amazing support from management and co-workers on her journey thus far and enjoyed making a difference to residents’ lives each and every day.

“Everyone is so supportive and caring,” she said.

“Seeing the residents each day smiling and the great team members we have working here and management staff are the things I love most about my work,” she said.

“I enjoy being able to support our residents live as independently as they can, with a little help from us and making a difference in their lives each day.”

When asked about her proudest moments, Ms Feast reflects back on the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Being able to step up during COVID outbreaks and supporting our residents and co-workers through a difficult time are my proudest memories of working with Boandik,” she said.

Alongside enjoying her time with residents, Ms Feast has had a good laugh alongside them.

“Spending time with the residents and having them share some jokes and life stories – some can be very cheeky,” she said.