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Eldercare enrolled nurse named 'Best Employee' at 2015 ACS Gala Awards
Eldercare Enrolled Nurse Gary Campbell has celebrated a double victory at this year's 2015 Aged and Community Services Gala Awards for Excellence (SA & NT) winning two prizes including the 'Employee Award' for his commitment and dedication to the care of older people.
Mr Campbell was also named joint winner of the 'Individual Award' which was presented to nominees who achieved the highest overall score at the June 19 ceremony.
Eldercare Chief Executive Jane Pickering said Mr Campbell had worked as an enrolled nurse with the organisation for nearly 30 years and congratulated him on his win.
“We already knew how fortunate we were to have a nurse of Gary’s calibre here at Eldercare and now our peers in South Australia and the Northern Territory know how gifted he is too,” Ms Pickering said.
“Through our innovative Dementia Excellence Program, Gary has played a lead role in fostering a positive culture focusing on person-centred care to deliver the best support possible to residents living with dementia.
“Gary has also participated in other key projects at Eldercare which have helped shape the organisation and his warm personality, resourcefulness and resolute commitment to outstanding care make him a deserving winner.”
Mr Campbell was honoured to be acknowledged at the awards which he said celebrated the dynamic and innovative work that was occurring within aged care.
“People who work in the sector are a mix of highly skilled and trained professionals from varied backgrounds who are passionate about providing the highest standard of service to residents,” Mr Campbell said.
“It’s exciting to be part of Eldercare’s Dementia Excellence Program because I have always been interested in people’s life stories and how nurses can play a role in participating and enhancing residents’ narratives.
“It is vital we get to know each resident living with dementia and have the ability to see elements of ourselves in them to be able to enhance their wellbeing and provide quality care.”
Mr Campbell said he had seen a lot of changes in the nursing profession since he completed his training in the 1970s.
“There are now so many pathways and opportunities available to new graduates,” Mr Campbell said.
“The key to success is to learn about generosity of spirit - to be on the move, on the floor and involved with people.”
Image: (L – R) Healthcare Australia Pty Ltd (NASA) SA General Manager Celia Beinke with Eldercare Enrolled Nurse Gary Campbell at the 2015 Aged and Community Services SA & NT Awards for Excellence. Courtesy of Aged and Community Services SA & NT Inc.