When Stephen talks about his work in home care, one thing becomes clear very quickly: for him, it’s all about the people.
Since joining BaptistCare in July 2023, Stephen has been supporting older clients across the Far North Coast, helping them stay independent, connected and comfortable in their own homes.
“I’ve only been in the industry for a few years” says Stephen. “But this is the most appreciated I’ve ever felt in my whole career, and one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve ever had.”
Helping people feel like themselves again
Part of the reason for this, Stephen says, is the sense of fulfillment he gets from seeing how his work can positively impact clients – especially those living with dementia. Around half of the people he supports are living with the condition.
“Each day can look different for someone living with dementia, so I meet them wherever they’re at,” says Stephen. “It’s about stepping into their world, taking them out, having a laugh, and giving them a small break from routine.
“I try to help them feel like themselves again - even if it’s just for a little while.
"I’ve found that if my clients have a sense of independence and purpose - even in everyday tasks - it brings the best out of them.
“For example, if I tell someone I’m going to shower them, it takes away all their autonomy. But if I ask whether they’d like to take a shower and let them know I’m there to support them – even if that support is significant – it reframes the task and gives them a sense of confidence and achievement.”
An unexpected career turn
Aged care wasn’t a career Stephen mapped out when he relocated to the Far North Coast from Sydney five years ago.
For much of his working life, he was involved in horticulture and landscaping, but after the move, he took up a job with Coles as a stop gap to explore new career options in the area.
And it was there that he would often see carers coming in with elderly clients to do their grocery shopping.
“I’d chat with them and ask about their jobs. They’d all tell me how much they loved it,” he recalls.
“Watching them interact with older people, I thought, ‘I could do that.’”
There was also a personal reason the work resonated. Stephen and his wife had helped care for her mother when she was living with dementia, giving him an insight into how the condition can impact families, and just how much additional support at home can make a difference.
“I interviewed with a few local providers, but when I met the team at BaptistCare, something just clicked,” Stephen says.
“I could see immediately that they cared about their people as much as their clients – they provide so much support to help us do our jobs well. I’ve been here three years and never regretted my choice once.”
Feeling seen
When asked what he loves most about the role, Stephen’s answer is immediate:
“The people - without a doubt.”
Stephen says each of his clients has the most fascinating stories, and it’s a privilege to spend time with them.
“Anyone who doesn’t spend regular time with older people needs to work it into their lives somehow – their stories, experiences, and personalities are so rich and unique. You can learn so much. I feel very lucky to work in this space.”
Asked about a career highlight, Stephen says it’s never been about one single moment, but rather, simply watching his clients quietly rebuild their confidence over time.
One client Stephen was assigned early on had presented some challenges to the team – he rejected any support, refused to shower and was often unwilling to engage.
Stephen saw someone who needed patience and respect. Slowly over time, the relationship changed.
“Now, when I see him, it’s like we’re best mates,” Stephen smiles.
“He trusts me, he engages and seems to genuinely look forward to our visits. It shows that the right support can help someone feel seen, and more willing to accept the care that helps them live well.”
Roots and roles
Stephen and his wife share a love of amateur theatre, being actively involved in Sydney productions for many decades.
Though he's stepped away from horticulture as a career, Stephen is still passionate about gardening, growing everything from tomatoes to mangoes in his backyard.
Back in Sydney, he was actively involved in amateur theatre with the Elanora Players, a local group with a long history of productions.
Stephen performed in well-known Australian classics like The Summer of the Seventeenth Doll and The Touch of Silk, as well as playing Inspector Frost in the murder mystery, Cat's Cradle.
"Those years were a lot of fun," he says. "It's also where I met my wife - she'd been part of the community theatre scene for years before I joined."
"We haven't found our way back to theatre yet up here on the Far North Coast - but never say never!"
An outstanding employee
Stephen’s dedication to his clients hasn’t gone unnoticed. After just a few years in aged care, he was recently nominated as an Outstanding Employee in the 2026 Ballina Shire Business Excellence Awards in recognition of his contribution to the sector.
Referencing Stephen’s high level of integrity and professionalism, the nomination emphasised his commitment to clients and their families – particularly in his involvement with BaptistCare’s ‘Refresh Retreats’ program, an initiative designed to support and educate people living with dementia and their carers.
The retreat, taking place over two days, is facilitated by care workers like Stephen, as well as dementia care experts.
“I’ve enjoyed seeing what a positive impact the retreats have on our clients – it really can change the way they see their situation,” Stephen shares. “It’s been a pleasure to play a part in that.”
