On this special occasion of Aged Care Employee Day, we celebrate Australia’s residential, home and community aged care workers. This year’s theme #ThanksForCaring recognises everyone involved in caring for older Australians. This year, we asked our wonderful Personal Care Assistant, Blair Harrison, to share his aged care journey and what working at Seabrae Manor Aged Care means to him.
Why did you want to pursue a career in aged care?
I attended Mueller College Rothwell, around the corner from Seabrae Manor Aged Care. I wasn’t doing that well academically. I wanted to do a certificate, something I could lean on. I was interested in health care, as I had been around surf lifesaving, and I'm surrounded by family who are health care workers.
My aunty works at the Mater hospital and my mum is a dental technician, so I thought why not. I studied and passed my Certificate III in Aged Care while in year 11 and did my placement hours at Seabrae Manor. My first job out of school was a Personal Care Assistant at Seabrae Manor in 2021.
I'm studying to be a Registered Nurse and I am six months into my degree at the Australian Catholic University.
What do you like most about your role and working at Seabrae Manor?
I like caring for the residents the most. Being practical and hands on. The role of a Personal Care Assistant fulfils that part of me.
What is most challenging about working in aged care?
The stigma of working in an aged care home can be challenging at times but I also tend to over think things. I don't really have any challenging aspects in my role that I can think of.
What is a special memory you have from working at Seabrae Manor?
My first death. It made me realise what life is like and how important this industry is. Having a good understanding of the end-of-life process helps me recover from the loss.