Noela ‘inspired’ decades on

Queensland community service manager, Noela Sorensen, is inspired by the trusted relationship between nursing staff and clients.

Ms Sorensen, of aged and community service provider Blue Care, was one of 50 staff members honoured for reaching a career milestone of 20 years or more continuous service at Blue Care’s Staff Recognition Night recently.

Award recipients travelled from across Queensland and northern New South Wales to attend the event at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Ms Sorensen (pictured) first began her career with the not-for-profit organisation as a registered nurse at Blue Care Redland Community Care. 

“Following 20 years of a rewarding career with Blue Care, I am still inspired by our staff who continues to ‘walk up the garden path’ to clients’ homes and make a real difference in their day,” she said.

Fortunate to have had many career opportunities at Blue Care, Ms Sorensen said working in different positions had provided her with varied experience.

She rose through the ranks at Redlands and then Wynnum Community Care to become the service manager in 2005 and has now moved across to Blue Care’s Central Support office at Toowong to help roll out strategic projects across the organisation.

There is an opportunity for a really good career path in Blue Care and, as a manager, I have encouraged and supported staff to follow their passion − to then watch them grow professionally and personally is very rewarding.”

Blue Care executive director, Robyn Batten, said recognising individual achievement is an important part of the culture at Blue Care.

“This is one night where, as an organisation, we formally recognise dedicated staff members who do an amazing job and deliver vital services in their local communities,” Ms Batten said.

Blue Care’s Staff Recognition Award recipients work in a range of roles from registered nurses to kitchen staff, bus drivers and clerical staff.

Blue Care will also celebrate the inaugural Blue Care Total Rewards Excellence Awards which recognise staff and volunteers who have demonstrated significant contribution in areas such as Innovation, Sustainability, and Indigenous Achievement.