“As we look to the future, the dedication and skill of our nursing teams, across all care settings, remain paramount,” says senior Goodwin manager Tamra MacLeod in this advertising feature provided by GOODWIN AGED CARE SERVICES.

While International Nurses Day tributes have ended, the profound impact and unwavering dedication of Goodwin Aged Care Services’ nursing professionals continue to resonate deeply within the Canberra community.

Goodwin proudly acknowledges its 86 nurses – compassionate individuals forming the heart of care for seniors across residential – and home care.

These nurses offer medical expertise, empathy, and steadfast support, deeply invested in the well-being of Canberra’s seniors, enriched by the diverse backgrounds within the team.

In an ACT aged care sector facing workforce challenges, Goodwin proactively addresses these issues with innovative programs.

Pauline Hugler, executive manager of People and Culture, emphasises their strategy: “The best way to find a workforce is to create our own.”

A key initiative is the Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQN) Program, in partnership with Key2Care Health Solutions. This program recruits committed overseas nurses, providing a pathway to Australian registration (AHPRA/NMBA) within 12-24 months. Its success is evident in its expansion and growing candidate numbers.

Michael Bermejo, director of Key2Care Health Solutions, affirms the positive outcomes, saying: “We have been working closely with Goodwin to source the right candidates and have seen great results. Now in its second recruitment campaign, we are witnessing double the number of candidates.”

While initially focused on the Eurobodalla/Shoalhaven area, Goodwin is now focusing on expanding the IQN Program to its Canberra facilities.

“Recognising ACT-specific pressures, including workforce shortages and the need for specialised care and professional development, we are expanding the IQN Program to our Canberra facilities,” says Hugler.

Tamra MacLeod, executive manager, Clinical and Health Services, says: “This expansion demonstrates our proactive approach to bolstering our nursing teams and ensuring the highest standards of care for our residents here in the ACT and southern NSW”.

Goodwin addresses aged care’s multifaceted challenges with comprehensive strategies. Beyond the IQN Program, the Clinical Excellence Program, launching with its first workshop in August, underscores their commitment to staff development.

This initiative offers practical, evidence-based training in areas such as clinical decision-making, communication, leadership, and person-centred care.”

“I believe this sets us apart,” says Pauline Hugler, highlighting Goodwin’s investment in its nurses’ skills and confidence.

The dedication of Goodwin’s nurses is evident in their personal stories.

Australian-born Jessica Davis, with 12 years of nursing experience values the life stories of older adults and the importance of emotional support.

Emma Escovilla, from the Philippines, also with 12 years’ nursing experience under her belt, is committed to high-care standards, and actively participates in Goodwin’s quality initiatives.

Nepalese nurse Riya Rayamajhi finds profound reward in alleviating client suffering through empathetic care.

Filipino nurse Rhen Padona, who has a wealth of experience drawn from 29 years in nursing, shares her passion for geriatric nursing at Goodwin by mentoring new nurses. Rhen recognises the crucial role nurses play in “promoting healthy ageing, managing age-related conditions, and improving the quality in the last stage of life”.

Shaun Button focuses on providing comfort and companionship in end-of-life care while Ian Pamintuan cherishes the life lessons from residents and the joy of making them smile. “With 18 years of nursing, I have shared many smiles and as many tears in my career”, says Ian, who hails from the Philippines.

Clara Kim, a nurse with 14 years of registered nursing experience across South Korea and Australia finds reward in residents recognising her understanding and reliability, emphasising the challenges of dementia care.

North Indian nurse Amanpreet Kaur values the deep connections formed with residents, particularly those with cognitive impairment, and the continuous learning in her role.

Kellie Croawell, an Australian nurse with more than a decade of experience, views nursing as a heartfelt calling, finding immense satisfaction in bringing comfort and joy to seniors.

Goodwin House Director of Nursing Teddy Morados, a Filipino nurse with 13 years of experience, values the supportive environment at Goodwin and the ability to make a real difference in residents’ lives. For Teddy, nursing is about advocating for patients and understanding their needs deeply.

Person-centred care is a central tenet of Goodwin’s approach, extending also to their home care services. Sharon Brar, Home Care nurse consultant at Goodwin says: “Goodwin Home Care nurses provide patient-centred care, in a holistic manner. “Our dedicated team of nurses assist clients with care planning and complex care needs. We have a passion for proactive primary health care and want to keep our clients living independently, in their own homes for as long as possible.

Tamra MacLeod says: “As we look to the future, the dedication and skill of our nursing teams, across all care settings, remain paramount. Goodwin’s commitment to proactive workforce solutions and ongoing professional development ensures that our nurses are well-equipped to continue providing exceptional care to the Canberra and Batemans Bay communities, embodying the true spirit of everyday heroes in aged care.”

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