Colleen Pastina

Role: Nursing Assistant at The Village Length of service: 45 years

Colleen joined Brightwater in January 1978 and recalls working for very strict Matrons in the early days. Her blue uniform was accompanied by white shoes, stockings, a red cardigan and a white cap.

It has been a family affair for Colleen, whose late husband was an Orderly for about eight years. Her daughters are also part of the Brightwater family and Colleen fondly remembers taking them to the Homes of Peace in Subiaco when they were little. Therapist Assistant, Deirdre, has spent 20 years at Brightwater. Caroline started as a Nursing Assistant about 20 years ago, taking a break to raise her family, and then moving to Brightwater at Home.

Colleen shared some wisdom and memories with us.

What led you to work in this field?

I always cared for older people and like looking after them and doing things for them. I was working in a factory called Bristile at the time, polishing wash troughs. One day my sister-in-law was on the bus and she saw a lady who asked her: “Where you work? Why don’t you come and work at Homes of Peace as there is a job available”. There were a few jobs available and after my sister-in-law joined, she told me about it, so I joined after a few days. And that’s how it started!

Could you briefly describe your role and responsibilities?

I look after residents who have been diagnosed with dementia. I help them with their daily needs like showering, getting dressed and ready for the day. I assist with their meals, help put them to bed and administer medication.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I just love looking after the residents. Although they may have aged and lost some capabilities, they still have talents and skills which they have never forgotten. For example, it is lovely to see someone play a piano beautifully, though they may struggle with other daily needs.

What’s the most inspiring part of your job and what would people never guess you do?

I am inspired when I come to work and see that the residents are happy and I get to talk to them, help them with their needs and look after them. And I like talking to the family members as well.

The thing people would never guess is that this job sometimes involved counselling family members. They love talking to us and it is important that we give them time. I enjoy giving updates and making sure they are happy with everything about the services. Then they go home with a smile, knowing that their loved one is cared for.

What lessons have your learned after working in aged care for four and a half decades?

A lot has changed… For example, when I started, we did not have the modern facilities like we have now. We also didn’t have much equipment. Now we have hoists and lots of aids to help us in our work. Everything is better. There is plenty of stock like gloves and wipes. We also get lots of training which we didn’t have as much when I first started. Plus, we understand more about the people and how to care for them.

What energises you at work?

When I can see the residents improve with a little help, and they are happy. They talk about their lives and I love hearing their stories. I especially like it when they get up to enjoy some singing and dancing.

What advice would you give other Brightwater staff?

Just to appreciate the work that we do. And take your time. Don’t rush with residents but be calm and gentle with them and the things they are facing. Some of the residents I care for have been here for a long time. This means we really get to know them and their families well and they love to see us when we are on a shift.

It also makes a difference when you have a regular staff. The residents love getting to know us. They may not know my name, but they recognise my voice which is very important.

Where is your hometown?

Rangoon, Burma (Myanmar).

If I was a superhero, my superpower would be… to have more hands so I could help more people at once.

What’s the best holiday destination you’ve ever visited?

I love England. My sister lives there and lots of family. It has been about two years since I last visited my family.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to play card games like Poker with my friends and go shopping or out to lunch with them.

Nominate a colleague for the next round of Brightwater Spirit Awards

Every quarter, employees who have been recognised via Brightwater Plus will be considered for a Quarterly Award  for each of the values that make up the Brightwater Spirit.

The Quarterly Award winners will form the pool of eligible employees to win the annual Brightwater Spirit Award, presented in February.

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