More than 300 staff from across MercyCare’s diverse services came together at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre for the organisation’s second annual award event, which provides the opportunity to recognise staff and volunteers who have gone above and beyond, embody MercyCare’s values and provide a positive and quality experience for service users.
Held during Mercy Week – a significant event that celebrates MercyCare’s rich history and heritage – the gala was hosted by colourful entertainer Famous Sharron, who lifted the energy in the room with her infectious energy and cheeky humour.
The gala carried an eclectic Japanese-inspired theme that included a vibrant street scene backdrop and twinkling Cherry Blossom tree lights scattered throughout the room.
Dr Richard Walley OAM led a moving Acknowledgement of Country before introducing the first act of the evening, En’Coda, who delivered an immersive musical performance that captivated everyone in the room.
The keynote speaker on the night was the Honourable Dr Anne Aly MP, who took to the stage to deliver a powerful story about her special connection to early learning and residential aged care.
She then shone the spotlight back on MercyCare staff, acknowledging the incredible work that they do both behind the scenes and on the frontline to support the most vulnerable members of the Western Australian community.
Before announcing winners across the seven Excellence Awards categories, MercyCare Chief Executive Officer Anthony Smith took a moment to share his deep appreciation for every staff member and volunteer and their significant contribution to MercyCare.
He then congratulated the more than 90 staff and volunteers who received nominations, before handing the stage back to MC Famous Sharron to announce the award winners.
Well done to all award nominees and congratulations to this year’s Excellence Award winners:
Achieving Together Excellence Award: Brendan Manning
Innovation Excellence Award: Step by Step Settlement Services Team
Service Excellence Award (three winners): Ann Flack, John Murphy and Jessica Reyes
Catherine McAuley Excellence Award: Courtney Barnard
Customer Care Excellence Award: Sarah Thomas
Group Leadership Excellence Award: Kuzi Sakupwanya
Health, Safety & Wellbeing Award: Julie McMahon
There was also a surprise award announcement which recognised our incredible staff who work on the frontline across MercyCare’s Early Learning, Family and Community Services, Aged Care and Disability Services.
A big congratulations to our surprise winners:
Educators Dona Atukorale, Aayana May and Ting Ting Guan from Bassendean Early Learning Centre
Disability Support Worker Graham Wilson
Joondalup Residential Aged Care Home, which was awarded ‘Home of the Year 2022’
The night ended on a high, with the winners celebrating their recognition with their colleagues.
Check out the glitz and glamour of the night in the video below!
