Celebrating the heart behind Gold Coast aged care
Mariana Brat, a Gold Coast carer is recognised for eight years of compassionate support at Carinity Cedarbrook aged care.
What’s happening?
Gold Coast personal carer Mariana Brat is being celebrated ahead of Aged Care Employee Day.
Mariana works at Carinity Cedarbrook in Mudgeeraba, where she provides personal care and companionship to older residents. She also builds trusted relationships with residents, their families and other staff members.
The annual celebration recognises people working throughout aged care and their contribution to the wellbeing of older Australians.
Why it matters?
Aged care workers support the health, comfort and emotional wellbeing of seniors. Their work also helps residents feel safe, respected and connected.
Mariana believes personal carers need compassion, patience and a genuine understanding of each resident.
“A personal care worker thrives to be compassionate, kind, humble, patient, understanding and empathetic. It’s a rewarding job,” Mariana said.
She said these qualities help carers form lasting connections with the people around them.
“The most fulfilling thing about being a Personal Carer is the bond that you form with the residents and their family, and also fellow staff members.”
Local Impact
At Carinity Cedarbrook, Mariana’s main priority is providing quality care while bringing happiness into residents’ daily lives. She enjoys putting smiles on their faces and becoming someone they trust and rely on.
“The best part of working with the elderly is listening to their life history, experiences, travels, and lots of interesting stories,” Mariana said. “Every day is different and I go to work with joy.”
Her comments show how regular care can grow into a close and meaningful relationship for residents and workers.
By the Numbers
Aged Care Employee Day is held annually on 7 August to recognise workers supporting older Australians.
About 456,000 people work across Australia’s aged care sector in a broad range of care and support roles.
Mariana has worked as a personal carer at Carinity Cedarbrook in Mudgeeraba for eight years.
Zoom In
For Mariana, the residents’ happiness provides one of the strongest reminders that her work makes a difference. Their reactions after she returns from time away reflect the trust they have built together.
“I am happy when all my residents are happy. After two days off work when you go back the residents tell you how much they miss you. That means a lot, and it means my duties are done 100% from the heart,” Mariana said.
Carinity CEO Kevin Griffiths also thanked the dedicated staff who support older people across Queensland each day.
“I feel honoured to lead such a committed team of people who are so passionate about providing care and comfort to older members of their community,” Kevin said. “The individuals in our care are truly fortunate to have such committed and loving people supporting them.”
Zoom Out
Aged Care Employee Day recognises every role involved in supporting older Australians, not only those providing direct personal care.
The sector includes nurses, personal care workers, allied health professionals, administrators, chefs and gardeners. Each role supports the wellbeing, comfort and daily lives of seniors.
What To Look For Next?
Aged Care Employee Day on 7 August will allow communities to thank workers such as Mariana.
The celebration will also highlight the care and personal connections these workers provide to older Australians and their families.