My role is centered around providing support to carers of those living with a brain injury. Frequent check ins, conversations, event planning and attendance will be key to my ability to support our carers.

As a carer myself, I bring personal lived experiences to the role. This was a key inspiration in my desire to join Brainlink as I bring my own unique understanding of the challenges, complexities and roller coaster of emotions that align with a caring role. Ultimately, the idea of supporting those that rarely (if ever) put themselves first, brings the personal joy of knowing I have had the fortune and opportunity to make a positive difference to a kindred spirit.

Surrounded by my partner and our 12 year old Greyhound Ruby (who is incredibly spoiled), I am fortunate to be well supported and encouraged to engage with a role that I am passionate about and makes a genuine difference to the wellbeing of others.

With a background in education and wellbeing, I have a deep understanding of the need to be heard and feel valued. Empathy, understanding and active listening are key qualities that I bring to the role and I pride myself on my approachable and friendly demeanour.

Having an opportunity for some personal quiet time is important for me and allows me wind down. Whether that is being active, sitting down for a lengthy gaming session, reading a book or scratching Ruby’s ears.

Though I was born in Australia, I have also lived in England, Scotland and Wales.

I have a favourite short story that I often come back to. The ‘Starfish Story’ essentially tells the tale of a young person who is spending their morning throwing stranded starfish back into the ocean. They are approached by an adult who indicates that it is a fool’s errand given the child cannot make a real difference to the thousands beached. The child throws another back into the ocean and responds with ‘I made a difference to that one.’

This story has always resonated with me as it is a reminder that no act of kindness is too small, and that every individual has the power to enact positive change.

I hope to make a difference by becoming a trusted support, safe person and champion for those caring for others with a brain injury.

My primary role is focusing on carer experience and providing support to carers and supporting them via a range of services, with the aim of putting the carer in view and recognizing all that they do. 

I have both professional and personal experience supporting people in various community settings and hearing about the many barriers in accessing the necessary support, alongside my own lived experience of being a carer myself, I was naturally drawn to Brainlink and the service they provide.

I am fortunate to be supported by my incredible husband and our two boys, who keep me in check and encourage me to do what I love every day. They also ensure that I get a good daily dose of laughter and stay grounded. 

I have worked within the community sector in a range of sectors for over 15 years and pride myself on developing authentic connections with the people I support. I am a good listener and enjoy meeting people and hearing their stories. 

Exercise is my go-to when life gets challenging, there’s nothing better than taking a walk or getting active to help alleviate stress. I also find that catching myself in the moment when I’m feeling stressed and then pausing so I can try to tune into my body, and what it might need is helpful for me to take stock and slow down.

I enjoy playing basketball and participating in a weekly women’s competition. I used to play as a kid and decided to join a team once my boys started playing so we could connect about our shared interests. 

“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are”. Brene Brown 

I hope to make a difference by walking along side carers and giving them a safe space to share and feel heard.