We had a chat with one of Carinity Cedarbrook's unsung heroes, our head chef Vanessa Turnbull, about her dedication to making our residents happy.

I have always worked in hospitality.

I was a Restaurant Manager at North Burleigh Surf Club but decided to take on the canteen role at my children’s primary school as it suited my life as a mother. When they all left for high school I decided to move on.

Because of my training and skills I decided to try aged care as I wanted to feel I was making a difference in peoples’ lives. I wanted more than just financial reward like at the school.

I love that Cedarbrook is such a lovely well presented place, we have nice views and it’s a modern building. It’s great because it has a rural feel but it’s not isolated.

I also love my nice big kitchen and all the modern facilities.

I am super clean and organised so I love organising and implementing better procedures in my kitchen. I love putting in the extra effort to make meals I am proud to serve up.

As a mother I have a real nurturing nature and food is a great way to express care for others.

I enjoy being a team leader and conversing with our residents and their families.

When the residents are happy is when I’m most satisfied and I also like working with families to find the best way to meet the residents’ needs.