Care Manager Kate Celebrates a Ten-Year Milestone at Macquarie Lodge Aged Care Centre

“I moved to Australia in 2013 and began my journey at Macquarie Lodge at the age of 21,” tells Kate Pineda, the Care Manager of Macquarie Lodge Aged Care Centre (“Macquarie Lodge”). Kate recently celebrated ten years of work at the Centre and, throughout her time, has progressed in her role, first starting as a Care Service Employee in 2013, before becoming a Registered Nurse in 2017, the Clinical Coordinator in 2019. She has been the Care Manager since 2021.

She goes on to say that true leadership is about promoting what is in the best interest of the team and the work that the Centre does. “It's about fostering a culture where individuals feel valued, empowered, and supported to achieve their fullest potential.” she explains. “Leaders must inspire their teams to work together towards common goals, driving success and growth for everyone involved.”

Kate highlights importance of being a good leader through working as part of the wider Macquarie Lodge team. “To me, leadership means fostering a working environment based on harmony, mutual respect, and collaborative team effort,” she says. “It goes beyond merely completing tasks; it involves working from the heart to ensure that every voice is heard, conflicts are addressed, and issues are resolved.”

When it comes to working in the industry, Kate is motivated by connecting with the residents, noting that this is indeed one of the most satisfying aspects of her role. “What I find most rewarding in the Aged Care industry is the deep connection I form with residents and their loved ones from the moment they arrive at the Centre,” she says. “I pay close attention to their likes, dislikes, and what gives meaning to their lives. As I build these relationships, I am there for them during their most vulnerable moments, offering comfort and reassurance.”

For those considering working in the Aged Care sector, Kate speaks of balancing the demands of the industry with passion for the work. “It's essential to cultivate a genuine love for the work we do and maintain a commitment to keeping the residents at the forefront of every decision,” she states, also explaining that self-care is non-negotiable.

“Recognising the demands of our profession, it's imperative to know when to take a break and prioritise our own well-being to sustainably fulfill our caregiving responsibilities.” In her spare time, she practises yoga and meditation, before noting, “prioritising self-care is essential for me—it helps me recharge so I can give my best to others.”

In terms of working for The Salvation Army Aged Care, Kate states: “Apart from working for a Christian charity, I enjoy the opportunity to ensure that our clinical practices meet the highest standards of aged care. This involves adhering to regulations and also brainstorming new and improved ideas to enhance the lives of our residents.”

Click here to find out more about The Salvation Army Aged Care