Lucia Uriona arrived in Australia from Argentina in 1971. Her family, of Italian heritage, relocated for her father’s work and settled on a farm, far from the city life they knew.
“Everything was new. I spoke only a little English, so I had to start from scratch,” Lucia recalls.
Years later, while watching carers from SydWest Multicultural Services support her ageing mother, Lucia found her calling.
“They were kind, respectful. I thought—maybe I can do that too.”
SydWest Multicultural Services provides quality approved aged care services to assist people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to live independently – at home and within the community.
Upskilling with Macquarie Community College
As government regulations changed, SydWest encouraged Lucia to formalise her experience with a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) through Macquarie Community College.
“It was perfect – just one day a week. I could keep working with SydWest while learning,” she says.
Mereline Murimwa-Rarami, Sydwest Aged Care Services Manager, shares her thoughts:
“Macquarie Community College provides flexible training arrangements that allow our care staff to continue working while upskilling. This means SydWest can maintain uninterrupted service delivery to our clients, which is essential.
We’ve received positive feedback from SydWest care staff who have completed training with the College. We’ve also noticed an improvement in their performance, which tells us the training is both practical and effective.”
At Macquarie Community College, Lucia experienced hands-on training, not just theory.
“They teach differently. We practised real skills; things I use every day.
When you’re working, you don’t always realise the impact you have. Studying helped me see that what we do really matters.”
Learning, Friendship, and Ongoing Growth
Lucia’s learning journey brought more than skills – it gave her community.
“I made lovely friends during the course. I’m a big talker, and we all connected. We still keep in touch!”
Her trainer, Jas Khanooja, made a lasting impression.
“He explained everything so well. He really knows his stuff.”
With continued support from SydWest team, Lucia continues learning through in-house training like Dementia care.
“The Sydwest team offered so much. I love learning – it keeps me fresh, motivated, and connected to my community.”
Heather Hill, Community Services Lead at Macquarie Community College commented:
Lucia’s story is truly inspiring – a powerful reminder of how meaningful and fulfilling a career in aged care can be, especially when grounded in empathy, cultural understanding, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
I’m so proud of the way SydWest and Macquarie Community College collaborate to support individuals in not only growing professionally but also finding purpose and connection.
Aged Care Career Is Where Lucia Belongs
Lucia isn’t thinking of slowing down anytime soon. Despite suggestions from her sister to retire, she’s staying put.
“I feel so comfortable in this job. I love the seniors – they’re beautiful people. Understanding their culture, their stories – that’s so important.”
For Lucia, aged care isn’t about money:
“You do this work for people. A kind word goes a long way. We all need that. When we retire, we can’t just sit at home. Aged care is a great way to keep going and do something meaningful.”
Inspired by Lucia? Start Your Own Aged Care Journey!
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build on your experience, Macquarie Community College offers flexible, practical Aged Care courses. With trusted partners like SydWest Multicultural Services, you’ll be supported to grow, connect, and thrive.
