Volunteer Spotlight: Wendy Ferry 🫶🏻

For Wendy Ferry, Eloura Aged Care Facility is a vital part of the local community 🏨🏫 Wendy's involvement with Eloura began in 2020 when her mother became a resident. Witnessing firsthand the positive impact Eloura had on her mother's life sparked Wendy's dedication and support for this wonderful place! 

Born and raised in Quirindi, Wendy's roots run deep in the community. After years of contributing to the local workforce, she found herself with the gift of time in retirement. Embracing this newfound freedom, Wendy sought out opportunities to give back, leading her to join Eloura Auxiliary, a group committed to fundraising for QCS. Through Eloura, Wendy channels her passion for community service, contributing to initiatives that enhance the quality of life for QCS residents. 

Wendy's connection to Eloura and QCS doesn't end with fundraising efforts. Recognising the importance of diverse perspectives, she accepted an invitation to join Eloura’s Quality Care Advisory Body. Initially hesitant, Wendy soon realised the value of her unique viewpoint as a relative of a resident. Through this role, she gained insight into the inner workings of the facility and developed a profound admiration for the dedicated team led by Kim. 

Her family's recent experience with her mother's stroke reinforced her appreciation for the compassionate care provided by the QCS team during difficult times. 

Despite the challenges, Wendy remains resolute in her support for Eloura and QCS and its residents. While her contribution to Eloura may seem modest to her, they make a significant difference in the lives of those she serves. For Wendy, the true reward lies in the interactions she shares with residents and staff during visits with her mother. 

In Wendy Ferry, QCS has found a dedicated advocate and volunteer who is truly committed to the well-being of the community. Through her tireless efforts, Wendy embodies the spirit of compassion and community that defines Quirindi Care Services, enriching the lives of all who call it home. 
 
Question and Answers with Wendy Ferry 

• Please explain your involvement with QCS, how are you involved and how did that come to be?  

I first became involved with QCS when my Mum became a resident in 2020. She was very independent living at home but was on her own all day with me calling in morning and evening. A room was available at the time, she decided she would take it and moved in shortly after. She settled in really well and became involved in all activities available and had people around her and interaction with other residents and staff was very beneficial. So began my journey with QCS. 

• Please tell me how you feel QCS makes a difference in the community?  
  QCS is invaluable to the Quirindi community. It allows residents to stay in town and be well looked after in a safe and secure environment. 

• Are you able to share a little bit about yourself please?  

I was born in Quirindi and grew up in the country only moving into town to begin work after I left school. I worked at Quirindi Jewellers for ten years, got married, had a family and then managed Quirindi Furniture One for twenty-seven years until retirement in 2021. Since then, I have had the time to do things that I enjoy. One of those things was joining the Eloura Auxiliary. This group of wonderful ladies do an amazing job fundraising to buy much needed supplies for QCS. Whether it be art and craft supplies or new inflatable mattresses it is very satisfying to think I can help make the lives of the residents more enjoyable and comfortable. 

• Please tell me about your involvement with the Quality Care Advisory Body and why you chose to volunteer? 

When asked to join the QCA body I was very hesitant at first but decided that a viewpoint of a relative of a resident could be quite valuable to the body. It is all very new, but I have learned so much about the everyday running of the facility and I have great admiration for Kim and her team and the wonderful job they do. 

• What do you feel are the biggest challenges for an aged care facility (particularly being in a remote area) and how do you feel QCS is working toward overcoming those challenges?  

QCS has its challenges attracting quality staff which initiated a recruitment drive to employ staff from overseas. The staff are all very caring which my family has seen firsthand as my Mum suffered a stroke recently and is now totally dependent. The staff have been amazing. The problem of doctors in town and COVID-19 are both ongoing challenges, but the staff do an amazing job keeping our loved ones safe. 

• What are you most proud of in relation to your volunteer work?  

My contribution to Eloura is only very small at present but I feel any contribution is appreciated. I certainly enjoy the interaction with other residents and staff when I visit my Mum.