While the official International Nurses Day tributes may have concluded on 12 May, the profound impact and unwavering dedication of nurses continue to resonate deeply within our communities. Here in Canberra, Goodwin Aged Care Services recently shone a spotlight on their remarkable team of 86 nurses — the compassionate individuals who form the very heart of care for Canberra’s seniors across their residential and home care services. These professionals are more than just medical practitioners; they are the empathetic faces, the steadfast support, and the skilled practitioners deeply invested in the wellbeing of Canberra’s senior citizens. Goodwin proudly employs a rich tapestry of individuals, bringing diverse experiences and perspectives to the vital work they undertake.
Canberra Daily had the privilege of connecting with some of these dedicated nurses. Their stories illuminate the profound commitment that defines Goodwin’s nursing team.
Australian-born Jessica Davis, with 12 years of experience, was drawn to nursing by a desire to make a real difference in people’s lives. “Being a nurse means being a constant support for others, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well,” she explains. Jessica’s focus on geriatric care at Goodwin stems from her deep respect for the life stories and resilience of older adults. “Geriatric nursing has always resonated with me because I truly value the life experience, resilience, and unique stories of older adults.”
Emma Escovilla, a nurse with 12 years in Australian healthcare and proud of her Filipino heritage, believes nursing is about “having the integrity, compassion and dedication to assist the residents in improving or achieving their health goals.”
Riya Rayamajhi, a nurse with five years of experience, brings her Nepalese heritage and Hindu faith to her compassionate approach at Goodwin. Inspired by her family, Riya sees nursing as an act of empathy. “I love being caring, kind, and understanding someone’s needs and giving patient-centred care. The true reward in my work lies in understanding a client’s or resident’s pain and witnessing their subsequent comfort and improved wellbeing.”
Rhen Padona, a Filipino nurse with 29 years of experience, was inspired to enter nursing by witnessing a nurse’s compassion as a teenager. For Rhen, nursing involves providing “compassionate and holistic care, not just to my patients, but also their families, often at critical times”, and she finds joy in positive outcomes. Her passion for geriatric nursing at Goodwin lies in recognising the crucial role nurses play in “promoting healthy ageing, managing age-related conditions, and improving the quality in the last stage of life”. Rhen also enjoys mentoring new nurses.
Shaun Button, an Australian nurse with two years of experience, was motivated by a desire to positively impact the lives of seniors in residential care. For Shaun, nursing embodies “Selflessness, teamwork, kindness, compassion, and empathy.” His focus on geriatric nursing at Goodwin is driven by the meaningful opportunity to provide comfort and companionship during the final stages of life.
Ian Pamintuan, a Filipino nurse with 18 years of dedication, finds deep meaning in his interactions with the elderly and the life lessons they share. “This job always reminds me of how life is too short and flies by, it makes me contemplate and appreciate the moments we have as much as we can possibly remember.”
Teddy Morados, a Filipino nurse with 13 years of experience and Goodwin House’s Director of Nursing, values the supportive environment at Goodwin and the ability to make a real difference in residents’ lives. For Teddy, nursing is about advocating for patients and understanding their needs deeply.
Mirme Celeste, a Filipino nurse with a decade of experience, echoes this sentiment; “The positive difference we make in our residents’ lives is what I find most rewarding.”
Kristine Maraon, a Filipino nurse with extensive experience in both the Philippines and Australia, is driven by a passion for caring for the vulnerable and aims to provide “satisfaction and good service to our consumers” at Goodwin.
Ferryjel Oliamot, a nurse from the Philippines with 10 years of experience, highlights Goodwin’s supportive and collaborative culture as key to her dedication to geriatric nursing. For Ferryjel, ensuring the comfort and wellbeing of her residents is the ultimate reward.
Adding to this dedicated team is Sujata Gurung, who has been a nurse for over five years. With cultural roots in Nepal, a land rich in multiculturalism and multilingualism, and a strong Hindu faith centred on the principle of “Goodness is Godness,” Sujata’s path to nursing was inspired by her childhood experiences of frequent illness and the comforting presence of nurses who reassured both her and her parents. For Sujata, “Being a nurse is being a source of compassion, strength and knowledge to support someone in critical moments of their lives.” She finds the greatest reward in having “an opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s life”.
Clara Kim, a nurse with fourteen years of Registered Nursing experience across South Korea and Australia, was inspired to become a nurse by a fundamental desire to “look after people”. Clara values Goodwin’s supportive and well-organised environment. The most rewarding part of her job is “When the residents’ needs are met by my care,” and when residents remember her as a reliable and understanding nurse.
Amanpreet Kaur, a nurse with three years of experience, brings her North Indian traditions and family ethics to her practice. For Amanpreet, nursing means “providing holistic care to the individuals, families and communities, often at critical times in their lives.” Her focus on geriatric nursing at Goodwin is driven by the emphasis on “Person-centred care, allowing nurses to connect with older adults on a deeper level.” She finds the profound connections she forms most rewarding, especially with those experiencing cognitive impairment, and values the ongoing learning opportunities in her role.
Kellie Croawell, an Australian nurse with over a decade of experience, views nursing as caring for patients with “both heart and soul” during their toughest times. Kellie has been with Goodwin for fourteen years due to shared values and a focus on patient-centred care. “The most rewarding part of my nursing job is caring for our seniors during their toughest times. Hearing them laugh at my bad jokes brings smiles and joy, reminding me of the positive impact we can have on each other’s lives.”
As Goodwin Aged Care Services looks ahead, the dedication and compassion of their nursing team serve as a constant reminder of their invaluable contribution to the lives of Canberra’s seniors. Their commitment, along with Goodwin’s support, ensures a positive future for aged care in the ACT.
