Every day is different for the City's 200 Community Care workers, who support 4,000 Home Care clients across Greater Geelong.
That's exactly what Barry Quarrell loves most about the job.
It's new adventures all the time! I really enjoy the fact that I work on my own and you manage your own time through the day.
Tasks can range from household cleaning, assisting with personal grooming and monitoring a client's health and wellbeing to grocery shopping, driving clients to coffee catch ups and meal preparation.
Shopping trips can be quite enjoyable; we have a 10 km radius that we can go within.They might want to go to the bank, they might want the post office or a particular supermarket.
Some like to pick their own items, but some give you a list and you just tick the list off as you go. And you basically help with the heavier items, carry the bags and push the trolley.
After leaving a 26-year career in warehouses, Barry describes the last four years spent caring for elderly residents and those with disability or mental illness as "the best."
I'd been thinking, 'I need to get into a job that's rewarding and has meaning' and that's when I signed up to do the schooling for aged care - I've never looked back.It's a fantastic role to take on; it's very rewarding, enjoyable and you meet the most amazing people.
I've just really enjoyed coming to work.
Barry places high importance on ensuring his clients maintain their autonomy.
I don't just jump straight in and try and help with them showering.I kind of step back and if they want help, then they can ask me for help. I like to keep the independence so you're not taking anything away from them, which is how it should work, I think.
The more they can do in their own home, the longer they're going to be able to stay at home.
Bev receives support from Barry and other Community Care workers every day.
They always make my bed in the morning because that's a lot of bending down," Bev said.I don't have to do any dishes - that's a big help I find.
A lady will help me with the washing and putting it on the line, which is good because I can't stretch up with my crook arm.
It's all done by the Council, which is wonderful. I do appreciate it.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM
The City's Community Care workers improve the lives of clients through practical support and compassion.Barry's story is just one example of the incredible work our Community Care team does every day.
This service is about more than assistance - it's about dignity, independence and quality of life.
Our Community Care workers ensure that residents can continue living in their own homes, in the community they love.
We have multiple part time opportunities available for Community Care workers to make a positive impact on the lives of residents in need.
