Alex Kyriakacis

Enrolled Nurse

I am passionate about supporting and caring for older adults with dignity, respect, and compassion. I find it deeply rewarding to build meaningful relationships with residents, listen to their stories, and provide the comfort and care they deserve in their later years. Working in aged care allows me to make a real difference every day, helping people live with quality, independence and peace.

I began working at SwanCare in 2020, took a brief break in 2022 to try working in a hospital, but ultimately discovered my true passion lies in aged care.

Fun fact about me: I enjoy spending time with my cat Mickey and my dog Milo when I have spare time.

Advice for my younger self: A huge congratulations for never giving up on my career despite any hurdles that may come my way.

Ronnie Deans

Administration Officer/Receptionist

Helping others 'fills my cup'. I am here because I love to engage with the residents, and I enjoy making a positive impact on people's experiences and their lives. I take pride in being friendly and approachable and being the first point of contact - making everyone feel welcome.

I have been at SwanCare since 2002, initially as an AIN before joining the Administration team in June 2006.

Fun fact about me: I used to be a Bay City Roller fan and would dress up in the Tartan clothes my mother would sew for me.

Advice for my younger self: Treasure your time while you are young, life is short.

Kirsty Allin

Commercial Hospitality Supervisor

I take pride in creating a welcoming experience for the residents and their families that come into the cafes, hearing them delight in spending time with their loved ones over a cuppa brings a smile to my face. I find so much joy listening to residents' stories and engaging with them, I always leave time for a chat.

I have been with SwanCare since 2020, I started as a Food Service Assistant and was provided an opportunity to develop into a Supervisor, now overseeing operations in both of our cafes.

Fun fact about me is that I have an identical twin sister.

Advice for my younger self would be to learn as much as you can, while you can. You never know what opportunity might knock at your door.

Joe Armstrong

Administration Assistant/Receptionist

Interactions with residents, assisting them, and making a difference in residents’ daily lives are what ‘fills my cup’. Daily walks to care centres to pick up mail and chatting with residents along the way are the best part of my day.

I have been a part of the SwanCare family since September, 2017.

Fun fact about me: I love to sing Shania Twain songs at karaoke.

Advice for my younger self: Believe in yourself, and enjoy each and every day.

Kirsten MacDonald

Social Engagement Assistant

My goal is to make residents happy and ensure they enjoy their time with us. I want their experience to be enjoyable and memorable. Talking to residents and families, helping them smile or feel comforted, fills my heart. Seeing residents happy is why I do this job. Talking with the residents and helping any way I can. I learn so much about the residents, and the stories they tell are what I enjoy most about my day.

I started at SwanCare in April 2021, but I had been a volunteer here since the end of 2019, until the COVID-19 pandemic occurred.

Fun fact about me: I am always chasing my next goal. My current goal is to compete in America next year in my sport, strongman.

Advice for my younger self: Learn the new hobby. There have been so many times when one of my hobbies has been of help in an activity with the residents.

Matt Upston

Community Living Coordinator

Being able to make a tangible contribution to the lives of so many residents is why I do what I do. Going home each day feeling like I’ve achieved something that directly improves people’s lives, and being part of such a big, vibrant community.

I have been part of the SwanCare family since January 2018, starting as a Business Analyst and later becoming a Community Living Coordinator in 2021.

Fun fact about me: I can eat two pizzas in one sitting.

Advice for my younger self: Don't worry too much.

Matt Southgate

Retirement Living Consultant

I have the privilege of meeting people who, for one reason or another, need to change their living situation to somewhere that supports their needs and provides a safe and caring environment for them to live out a very special part of their lives. Over the years, I’ve been honoured to help many of our current residents complete this move, and seeing them thrive, be happy and make the most of their new lives here at SwanCare “fills my cup”.

I have been a part of the SwanCare family since August, 2017.

Fun fact about me: I sing in a band.

Advice for my younger self: Live in the moment and try to appreciate the little pleasures in life. I still tell my younger self that.