From Fire Evacuation to Fulfilling Career: Why Sunnyfield Is Calling on Northern Beaches Locals to Consider Support Work
Career changes do not usually begin during a fire evacuation.
Without hesitation, Angelica began helping people make their way outside. As she entered one room, she met Wendy, who pointed at her and said, “I want you to help me out of here.” Angelica took her hand and guided her safely to the exit.
From that moment, a connection was made.
Wendy has been part of Sunnyfield since the organisation first opened more than seven decades ago. Over time, Sunnyfield has been a constant in her life — built on care, trust and community. Angelica quickly became part of that story too.
Four years later, they have shared birthdays, Christmases and countless everyday moments. They have dressed up for Halloween, laughed through ordinary days and built a relationship that goes well beyond a job description.
Angelica began with no formal experience in the disability sector. She progressed from support worker to team leader and now works in a health and safety role supporting Sunnyfield staff.
“Being a support worker gave me the opportunity to be part of a community that leads with empathy,” she says. “Wendy has taught me the importance of being happy.”
Skills You Already Have
Sunnyfield is now recruiting paid support workers across the Northern Beaches.
You do not need a traditional care background. Many of the qualities that make great support workers are developed in other industries, including:
- Strong communication
- Patience
- Practical problem-solving
- Genuine empathy
Hospitality staff, wellbeing practitioners and chefs have successfully transitioned their skills into meaningful, everyday support roles.
For positions that do not require prior disability experience, full training is provided. A driver’s licence is essential. Many roles offer flexible hours, making this work suitable for students, parents or those seeking purposeful, paid employment.
At its core, support work is about showing up, building trust and helping people live with greater independence and confidence.
You can read the original feature in the Manly Observer here:
https://manlyobserver.com.au/from-retail-to-real-connection-why-sunnyfield-is-calling-on-northern-beaches-locals-to-consider-support-work/
Ready to Build a Career That Matters?
Sunnyfield is currently recruiting support workers across the Northern Beaches.
Explore current roles and apply via the Sunnyfield Careers page:
http://www.sunnyfield.org.au/careers
You don’t just work here. You belong here.
