Staff fund fosters drive for higher education

Staff at a well-known Sunshine Coast aged care provider are shooting for the stars with the introduction of a new scholarship fund.

SCHOLARSHIP: Payroll Officer Hayley Mix, Sundale CEO Danielle Mackenzie, Acting Facility Manager at James Grimes Care Centre -Katrina Kozlovic love the new Sundale Scholarship Fund.

STAFF at a well-known aged care provider are shooting for the stars with the introduction of a new scholarship fund.

The Sundale Scholarship Fund which has already supplied $67,000 to nine staff members, financially supports workers and helps them attain a recognised qualification.

Sundale CEO Danielle Mackenzie said the aged care provider was proud to lead by example

"As the sector waits for the final recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care and Safety, Sundale is determined to play a proactive part in reform in change," Ms Mackenzie said.

"The Sundale Scholarship Fund removes some of the barriers often associated with further education … and is a simple, yet powerful way we can support the Sundale community and our residents and care recipients.

"The fund is tailored to each recipient and can be spent on course fees, a laptop, reliable internet, travel costs associated with study, computer programs or books."

Enrolled nurse and bachelor of nursing student, Mark MacRae received $13,000 which will be spent on course fees at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

"It was a euphoric moment when I was told I had received a Sundale Scholarship, it gave me goose bumps," Mr MacRae said.

"Sundale's decision to award me a scholarship proves that I'm a valued member of the team and I'm proud they see me as an asset and part of their plans for the future."

Sundale is a community based, not for profit, retirement and care centre organisation that supports the needs of its community via care and assistance services.