Behind the Name Badge | Meet Amanda - Leading with Compassion at Carinya

Carinya Registered Nurse, Amanda

When Amanda started her nursing career in 1996 as a 19-year-old, she never imagined it would become the defining journey of her life. Inspired by stories of how older people were cared for in hospitals and aged care homes, Amanda enrolled in TAFE, earned her Cert IV in nursing and soon moved from Deniliquin to Korumburra to begin her first role in aged care.

Fast forward nearly three decades, Amanda recently celebrated a major milestone: becoming a Registered Nurse. "It was surreal," she says with a laugh. "I did a happy dance and squealed!"

Amanda joined Carinya over four years ago after a casual conversation at a local cricket match. Another nurse spoke so passionately about Carinya and its future plans that Amanda decided to take a tour. She hasn’t looked back since.

"Personally, I took a chance on change and it’s been a change for the better," Amanda reflects. Professionally, Carinya has supported her every step of the way, especially during her Bachelor of Nursing studies.

A lot has changed since Amanda's early days in aged care. From handwritten notes and physical lifting to electronic documentation and person-centred care, the evolution has been remarkable. Yet, her core belief remains the same: "Our residents don’t live in our workplace we work in their home. Dignity always comes first."

One of Amanda’s favourite memories at Carinya was being surprised in the activities room with a chorus of “Happy Birthday” sung by residents and staff. "Moments like that remind me why I love this work," she says. "Every resident has a life story, and it’s a privilege to hear it."

Looking ahead, Amanda dreams of finishing her nursing career where it began, in aged care. Her goal is to lead and support others in delivering the respectful, high-quality care every older person deserves.

"Be the nurse you would want as a patient," she advises. And with her mix of compassion, wisdom, and humour, Amanda is exactly that.