When Wendy Digney, a Support Worker at Brightwater, asked a client to paint her a picture, she wasn’t expecting much more than a smile. But that simple moment led to something she still treasures: a growing collection of drawings and paintings gifted by clients over the years.
“I think he wanted to buy me something as a thank you for my work,” she recalls. “I said, ‘I don’t want anything – can you paint me a picture instead?’”
“It’s never been about money,” Wendy says. “Just something heartfelt they could give.”
Wendy has spent years quietly making a difference at Brightwater. She doesn’t seek attention.
Most days she works independently, with pride and a strong sense of responsibility.
But her dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, particularly by her team. The warmth she brings to her role, her commitment to clients, and her quiet leadership truly reflect the spirit of Aged Care Employee Day. That’s why Wendy was recently surprised with a special visit from CEO Cath Stoddart.
Cath arrived with a bouquet of fresh flowers during what Wendy thought was just a regular team meeting.
Celebrating the Dedication of Our Aged Care Workforce
Fern Raynham, BAH Service Leader, and her team also wanted to do something special. They prepared thoughtful pamper gifts to recognise not only Wendy’s hard work, but also the kindness and calm strength she brings to those around her.
“Wendy is the kind of team member who reflects the very best of Brightwater. She is committed, caring and deeply connected to the people she supports,” said CEO Cath Stoddart.
“It was a privilege for me to thank her in person, especially on Aged Care Employee Day.”
“We have the most dedicated and caring staff. Whether supporting our clients onsite or bringing care to the homes of our clients, we are proud to celebrate their incredible efforts.”
Fern agrees. “Wendy never asks for recognition, but she absolutely deserves it. She brings calm, heart and reliability to everything she does, and her reporting is immaculate. We’re so lucky to have her on our team.”
Compassion, Care and Commitment at Brightwater
Her story is not just about dedication. It is also about growth - something Brightwater is proud to champion. With her children becoming more independent, Wendy has begun planning her next steps. She is exploring training in community services and hopes to return to a coordinator role when the time is right.
She says she wants to be ready when the opportunity comes and finds it reassuring to know that there’s a clear pathway to progress at Brightwater.
Wendy’s journey highlights the impact one person can have in aged care and reflects the dedication, compassion, and quiet leadership that lives across our workforce.
Today, as we celebrate Aged Care Employee Day, we recognise the meaningful and impactful work our staff do every day. Whether supporting clients onsite or delivering care in the community, you are making a difference.
Every one of our frontline team make aged care not only essential, but extraordinary. Thank you for all that you do!
Also showing their appreciation (L-R): BAH service leader, Fern Raynham and team leaders Amy Flower and Merisha Sirons.
