Casey Hatch: Driving Excellence in People, Culture, and Safety at Quirindi Care Services
Meet Casey Hatch, the dedicated People Culture & Safety Manager at Quirindi Care Services (QCS). With four years of invaluable experience under her belt, Casey has been instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence and safety within the organisation.
Casey's role encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, ranging from payroll management to ensuring compliance with HR and fire safety regulations. She plays a pivotal role in maintaining a skilled workforce, upholding organisational values, and safeguarding the health and wellbeing of employees. Her commitment to meeting compliance standards, particularly in Standard 7, reflects her unwavering dedication to excellence.
Standard 7 requires an organisation to have and use a skilled and qualified workforce, sufficient to deliver and manage safe, respectful, and quality care and services, which meet the Aged Care Quality Standards.
One of Casey's proudest achievements is spearheading cultural change within the organisation. By fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, she has created an environment where employees from different backgrounds can thrive. Casey's favourite aspect of working at QCS is the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse team, learning about various cultural customs and celebrations along the way.
Beyond her contributions within the organisation, Casey recognises the profound impact QCS has on the community. By providing a safe and nurturing environment for elderly residents, QCS gives back to those who have contributed so much to the community over the years.
“QCS offers a secure haven for residents who can no longer care for themselves at home. It's a chance for our community's elders, who've given so much to the community over their lives, to receive the care they deserve in their time of need,” she said.
Away from her professional endeavours, Casey's passion for war history is evident. Having walked the Kokoda track and Sandakan Death March twice each, she embodies a deep respect for the sacrifices made by those who served. Her personal connection to the Sandakan Memorial Day Service, honouring a family member who was a POW, underscores her profound appreciation for history and remembrance.
“I have walked both the Kokoda track and Sandakan Death March twice each (including a hike up Mt Kinabalu) and have had the privilege of being able to meet one of the last remaining Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels on my first Kokoda trek and also two Pearl Harbour survivors in Hawaii.
“On my last trip to Borneo last year I was able to take part in the Sandakan Memorial Day Service with laying of wreath and the roll call of the fallen in honour of the memory of my family member who was a POW in Sandakan,” Casey said.
Casey's journey in aged care began 17 years ago, starting in administration and human resources roles. Through dedication and continuous learning, she has honed her skills, earning diplomas in Human Resources and Management along the way.
While Casey resides in Gunnedah, her connection to Quirindi runs deep. Growing up in the region, she has fond memories of playing sports and forging friendships in the area.
“I grew up in Gunnedah/Curlewis and still currently live in Gunnedah, travelling across for work each day. I had spent many times travelling across to Quirindi over the years to play in the local touch football comps and playing representative touch football for Quirindi, as well as many years travelling to Werris Creek for League tag," she said.
When the opportunity arose to work at QCS, Casey embraced it wholeheartedly, eager to contribute to the community she holds dear.
Working at QCS is a dynamic and fulfilling experience for Casey. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the lives of residents and colleagues alike. Building rapport with residents and hearing their remarkable life stories is a source of inspiration and fulfilment for Casey, underscoring the profound impact of her work in aged care.
“Every day is different at QCS, it is both rewarding and challenging at the same time, we have to continually adjust to changes in legislation and accreditation standards to remain compliant and ensure the residents receive the best care possible,” Casey said.
“Working in aged care we get to build a rapport with the residents learning about their life history and hear some amazing stories. It has been rewarding to develop a workforce of diversity and from this we are able to learn a great deal about each other’s cultures, religions and customs,” she said.
Casey is a compassionate and dedicated leader committed to driving excellence in people, culture, and safety. Her unwavering dedication and passion for making a difference are a testament to her invaluable contributions to Quirindi Care Services and the broader community.
Climbing up Botterill’s Hill Sandakan Death March, with Casey Hatch.
Log crossing on the Kokoda Track.
