Community
5 June, 2026
Keeping care in the family
AS Sunnyside House celebrates continued dedication to local families, a mother and daughter duo and an aunt and niece duo are showing caring for others can run in the family.
One of the family duos proving working together can strengthen their relationship is mother and daughter pair Sharon Paton and Chloe Lamb.
Ms Paton said she joined the team in June 2025 in an administration role, drawn by the opportunity to contribute to a workplace that makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
“While my role is behind the scenes, I still have plenty of interactions with residents and their families,” she said.
“One standout memory was helping a family navigate paperwork and processes during a stressful time.
“Their gratitude reminded me how important administration roles are in supporting residents and their loved ones.”
Inspired by her mother’s positive experience, Ms Lamb joined Sunnyside House in February 2026.
She said she quickly discovered a passion for connecting with residents.
“I love simply talking to the residents and hearing their stories,” Ms Lamb said.
“We have the best conversations.
“Everyone has been so friendly and supportive, and I love working with my mum.”
Ms Paton said watching her daughter grow professionally has been especially rewarding.
“It has been really special to see Chloe develop in her role and to share the experience of working in such a positive and supportive workplace,” she said.
“At work, I’m Sharon. After work, I’m mum.”
A similar story of family, mentorship and professional growth can be found with long-serving staff member Eva Place and her niece Mary Place.
Eva has been part of Sunnyside House since it opened in November 2001, joining the organisation after working as a home care worker.
Over the years, she has witnessed the home’s strong sense of community and teamwork firsthand.
“One of my best memories from the early days was the family environment and social connections between residents and staff,” Eva said.
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Mary joined Sunnyside House in February 2025 after completing work experience at the aged care residence and seeing firsthand the organisation’s commitment to person-centred care.
She said, having previously had a family member living at Sunnyside House, she always hoped to one day join the team.
“I love my job, especially building strong relationships with residents and genuinely making a positive impact on someone’s life,” Mary said.
“Having my Aunty Eva here has been comforting and supportive, it’s great to learn from her when we work together.”
Eva said one of the highlights of her career has been supporting Mary’s development as a nurse.
“It feels good to work with Mary and watch her grow in her skills, confidence and abilities,” she said.
“Sharing knowledge, providing support and seeing her succeed has been very rewarding.”
Sunnyside House chief executive officer Jo Forrest said family connections within the organisation help create the warm and welcoming culture which residents, families and staff value so highly.
“Having family members working together at Sunnyside House strengthens the sense of family and community that sits at the heart of our organisation,” she said.
“These connections contribute to the positive culture we have built over many years and reflect the supportive, caring environment that makes Sunnyside House such a special place to live and work.”
Both family pairs agree professionalism, teamwork and mutual respect are central to their success at work.
They also share a deep appreciation for the supportive culture at Sunnyside House.
Their stories reflect the values which continue to define Sunnyside House – respect, genuine care, teamwork and a commitment to helping both residents and staff thrive.
Ms Forrest said the sense of family and belonging celebrated through these staff stories reflects the importance of creating welcoming spaces for residents and their loved ones.
“As we continue our Winter Appeal, we are raising funds to refurbish our resident lounge and further enhance the warm, home-like environment that is so important to our residents and their families,” she said.
“The lounge is a place where people come together to connect, share stories and spend precious time with loved ones, and we want to ensure it remains a comfortable and welcoming space for everyone who calls Sunnyside House home.
“Please consider a donation today, with 70 per cent of our funds already raised, you can make a significant difference to our residents’ lives at www.sunnysidehouse.com.au/about-5.”
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