Honouring hearts in action: BaptistCare celebrates its inaugural Excellence Awards

BaptistCare has celebrated its people in a powerful way, hosting its inaugural Excellence Awards Dinner in Melbourne this month. The event brought together employees, volunteers, and leaders from across the country to honour those who embody the organisation’s mission and values. 

The evening was attended by Board Chair Tim Farren, Directors, and the newly formed National Leadership Group, underscoring the importance of this milestone in BaptistCare’s journey as a merged national organisation. 

A total of 37 awardees – including one outstanding project team – were recognised for their commitment, love, dignity, and the life-changing impact they bring to the people we serve. 

Click on the program image below to see the full list of award winners.

The Excellence Awards shine a spotlight on employees and volunteers who exemplify BaptistCare’s values in action; those who go beyond words to bring tangible transformation to people’s lives.  

CEO Charles Moore reflected on the significance of the awards, saying: “The Excellence Awards recognise outstanding employees and volunteers who embody the heart behind why we do what we do; to serve people with love and dignity, to give a voice to the voiceless, and champion the vulnerable. For you, this is just part of your job. For our customers, it’s life-changing.” 

Guests heard from three awardees who shared their passion for their work and their personal drive to walk alongside BaptistCare clients with hope and opportunity. 

The evening also highlighted powerful customer stories that brought BaptistCare’s mission to life. Customer testimonies were shared including:  

• A participant at Tumbelin Farm in South Australia: “The staff here believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself.”  

• The children of a Home Care client in the ACT, “We were blown away by the physio’s knowledge, attention to detail and the way he gently but firmly encourages dad with his exercises.”  

• A father in Tasmania's Caring Dads program reflected, “I’ve just had the best weekend ever with my daughter. She told me she loved me for the first time in a long time.” 
   

“These stories,” Charles noted, “point to the very heart of BaptistCare’s mission; to restore people, empower people, and love people through actions, not just words.” 

Closing the evening, Charles offered heartfelt thanks on behalf of customers, colleagues, and leadership.

“I am proud to work alongside people who know the value of every human life, who know the value of restored dignity, who know the value of renewed hope. Congratulations again to each one of you on being honoured with an Excellence Award tonight. I hope you enjoy this evening and know how much we value and honour you. God bless.” 

The inaugural Excellence Awards Dinner was more than a celebration of achievements; it was a reflection of the heartbeat of BaptistCare and the extraordinary people who live out its purpose every day.