Date: 24 December 2015

The Whiddon Group is delighted to announce that the winner of the 2015 Board of Directors Award is Kerry Holze from The Whiddon Group Redhead.

Since 2007, The Whiddon Group’s Board of Directors Award and Gala Dinner has been a celebration of Whiddon people, recognising the contributions of over 190 employees, acknowledging their commitment to the organisation and to caring for residents, and their initiative of going that extra mile without question.

The Board proudly supports this annual event and, while they are of the opinion that all of our employees are valued and important, feel that it is fitting to distinguish those team members who go above and beyond the call of duty and excel beyond means greater than expected.

The 2015 Gala Dinner, held in Sydney, was a wonderful evening celebrating the successes, commitment and ongoing support of Whiddon’s 20 nominees from across NSW and our congratulations go out to these team members.

Kerry was presented with the award at Whiddon’s annual gala dinner in early December in the company of the organisation’s 20 nominees from across New South Wales, and 10 employees who were being recognised for their 30 and 40 years of service to the organisation. Other guests included the Board of Directors, managers and special guests Annoulack Chanthivong, Member for Macquarie Fields and Councillor George Greiss, representing the Mayor of Campbelltown.

Kerry has been employed by Whiddon Redhead since 2003 and was recognised for her continued display of passion for aged care nursing through her energy, vitality and desire to go above and beyond in her role.

The award came as a shock to Kerry, who felt flattered to be nominated but did not anticipate winning.

“I didn’t expect to win; I thought one of the other nominees had it in the bag! I was stunned but very excited,” she said.

Kerry began her pathway from an Assistant in Nursing several years ago, and officially became a Registered Nurse in 2014. Kerry is well-known for her genuine smile and positive client service, ensuring that clients and their family member’s minds are at ease.

“I’ve been with Whiddon for nearly 13 years and have seen many wonderful changes over time. The staff are absolutely fantastic and we have an innovative management team with lots of great ideas that will continue to bring aged care forward. It’s just such a great atmosphere.” she said.

Understanding the importance of keeping up-to-date with new trends and contemporary practices, Kerry attends all in-house education, encouraging other staff members to get involved.

A strong team leader, Kerry leads by example and unity in order to ensure a cheerful and effective workplace and is not afraid to lend a hand to other departments as required.

Her colleagues describe Kerry as being honest, hardworking, flexible and not afraid to get involved in any aspect of care, which has earned her the respect and loyalty of her colleagues. Kerry is known for going above and beyond in her role, working extra shifts when required, motivating her team and accepting all challenges with a smile.