December 2004

Disability sector workers win awards

Five direct support workers have been honoured for their advocacy, commitment and dedication to people with a disability.

Timothy Beare, Julie Carpenter, Mia Tseres, Sussanne Pyers and Jackie O’Brien received their 2004 Victorian Direct Support Worker Award from Parliamentary Secretary for Community Services Telmo Languiller.

Mecwa Access Service Manager Peter O’Donaghue said Timothy Beare had worked in the disability field for 13 years.

‘Tim has demonstrated his commitment to exploring and promoting opportunities for people with a disability,’ Mr O’Donaghue said.

Through his passion for sport, he has helped his clients take part in local community competitions.

Julie Carpenter has provided professional and dedicated support to people who have lived at Kew Residential Services for 25 years.

Families praised Julie’s palliative care work with residents at Kew.

Kew Cottages Parent’s Association’s Michelle Memery said the individual resident always came first with Julie.

Wesley Disability Support (Eastern) Manager John Jenkins said Mia Tseres was a passionate advocate for the individual rights of her client group.

‘Mia is an astute communicator at all levels and demonstrates that quality communication can contribute to quality support.’

As a part-time employee based in Warrnambool, Sussanne Pyers works the breadth of south-western Victoria for the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

‘As well as organising a wide range of events that bring the best specialist knowledge and support for people with MS she is always available for individual support,’ said Jean Manifold one of Sussanne’s clients.

Kindilan Society Residential Coordinator Sandra Haynes said Jackie O’Brien helped people with a disability be involved in decision making, assert their rights and express their needs.

‘Jackie demonstrates her commitment to her work by consistently supporting her co-workers and promoting a positive team approach,’ Ms Haynes said.