Meet the Companions

Director

Favourite thing about being a Director

I can be the manager I always wanted to have, and I can work in the most personally fulfilling industry through supporting others. I value the power of community, connection and compassion.

Interests and Hobbies:

• Nature walks and bird spotting

• Baking sweet treats

• Video games (Animal Crossing, Mini Motorways, Legend of Zelda, etc.)

Experience:

I commenced a dual degree of IT and Information systems at Deakin University in 2017, before finding my passion in the disability industry and dropping out to work full time at TCG in 2020.

I have been an owner/director of TCG since August 2022

Director

Favourite things about being a Director:

• What I love most about my role is keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes so we can focus on what actually matters - delivering honest, practical support to the people who rely on us.

  We all hit rough patches in life, and having the right support in your corner during those times can make a world of difference. Getting to organise our work so people get real, reliable help when they need it most is deeply satisfying to me.

  At the end of the day, helping individuals achieve their goals builds stronger, more connected communities, and being a small part of that journey is a great feeling.

Hobbies and Interests:

• Bees, Birds, and gardening

• Racing, sim racing, and video games

• Music, drumming, and sound production

• Economics, markets, and investing

Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in commerce from Deakin University.

• Member of the association of certified bookkeepers

• 7 years’ experience working within the community services industry

Service Coordinator

Favourite thing about being a Coordinator:

I love getting to know the people I support and being part of their journey. I enjoy building strong relationships, finding solutions, and helping make things a little easier for participants and their families. Every day is different, and I love meeting so many wonderful people along the way.

Hobbies and Interests:

Outside of work, I am a mum to two hilarious and caring teenagers (plus 2 dogs & 2 cats!), and I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy traveling to new places, cooking, and most of all, unwinding with a good book.

Experience:

I have 5 years of Service Coordination experience, following a 12 year career in Hotel Management. I hold a Certificate IV in Community Services and a Certificate IV in Disability, with background experience in service development, quality assurance and HR. I am passionate about improving service delivery, ensuring the right people and processes are in place, and finding practical solutions when challenges arise.

Service Coordinator

Favorite thing about being a Service Coordinator:
I enjoy collaborating with our valued participants, support workers, and external allied health professionals to help individuals achieve their NDIS goals and make a positive impact on their lives. No two days are the same here at TCG!

Hobbies and Interests:
I am a self-confessed foodie and enjoy exploring local farmers' markets on weekends and trying out local restaurants with friends and family. I also love spending time getting out and about in nature and the community with my dog, Lola. After a busy week, I can also be found reading biographies, gardening, and attending live music gigs.

Experience:

Prior to joining TCG I worked for just over 10 years in the Early childhood sector and obtained a Diploma in Children's Services. I have lived experience as a person with a vision impairment, being totally blind in my right eye and having acquired Nystagmus in both eyes.  A few years ago, while looking for a new career, I applied for a job in the disability industry (at TCG) with assistance from Vision Australia, and the rest is history! 

Intake Coordinator

My favourite thing about being an Intake Coordinator is welcoming new and existing participants as the first point of contact and ensuring the onboarding process is smooth. I want everyone to feel supported from day one. I enjoy meeting new people as part of my role and supporting them though the process of discovering exactly what they need and how the team can best support them.

Outside of work I and self-confessed horse lover, I own 3 lovely boys that keep me very busy when Ia ma not working. I have a big garden to work in and I grow vegetables and in summer we harvest fruit from the many trees not planted by me.

My experience comes from about 18 years’ experience working with people with disability. I am also a carer of a person with a disability, and I feel that has given me a better understanding of people’s barriers, which makes me more determined to overcome, for them and me.

Registered Nurse and Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW:

Helping people live more independently and watching their confidence grow! Making a difference in someone’s day.

Interests and Hobbies:

• Boating and water activities

• Fishing

• Camping

• Spending time with my family and friends

Experience + Qualifications

• Certificate 4 in Disability

• Bachelor of Nursing - 6 years

• Registered Nurse

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW:

Inclusion, experience and enjoyment.

Interests and Hobbies

My two Children, my jack russell Shorty, camping, reading, skateboarding.

Experience + Qualifications

• Certificate 4 in home and community care

• First Aid Qualified

• Started working in the industry in 2015

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

I love seeing my clients every week! I love seeing and hearing about their lives and being apart of what they look forward to! Seeing them make safe choices and positively interacting with others in the community!

Interests and Hobbies

I love music, kareoke, camping, theatre and concerts, adventuring out into Melbourne/ wilderness, horse riding and hanging out with my dog!

Experience + Qualifications

I work at an SDS school and have worked with kids aged 5-18 with a range of different physical needs and disabilities. I have experience in peg feeding and seizure/ medical management. I have a cert 2 in community services, cert 2 in first aid, cert 2 in education support. I also have experience with working with children with challenging needs. I have been with The Companion Group since 2022

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

My favourite thing about being a support worker is being able to support someone with whatever they need, in whatever way works best for them. I love meeting new people and getting to know who they are — their hobbies, their background, and the things they’re passionate about. Having real conversations and learning what makes someone light up is one of the most rewarding parts of this job.

Interests and Hobbies

Outside of work, I enjoy playing Xbox, working on cars, and getting out for a round of golf when I can. I love taking my dog for walks and spending time with friends and family.

Experience + Qualifications

I’ve been in the industry for 12 months and have really enjoyed working with participants of all ages and support needs. I can assist with most household tasks, personal care, community access, transport, and general day‑to‑day support. Cooking isn’t something I do all the time, but I’m confident following instructions or a recipe when needed. Community access is a strong area for me, and I enjoy helping people get out, stay active, and feel supported in the community.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW:

Love helping people and being apart of people lives.

Interests and Hobbies:

I like wood working, metal work, cars, video games, camping, fishing and anything out doors really!

Experience and Qualifications:

I’ve done a joinery apprenticeship, panel work on old classic cars, hospitality, been in the disability industry for about 4-5 years and have a cert 4 in disability support work

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Helping participants to live as independently as possible and enjoy the things they are doing.

Interests and Hobbies

I love animals, I go horse riding love walking and doing crosswords and walking my dogs, love being out in the fresh air

Experience + Qualifications

Certificate 3 in individual support, gained experience on placement working at assisted independent living housing.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

My favourite thing about being a support worker is meeting new people along with getting to know my participants and creating a bond with them. Being able to help them achieve their goals and be able to continue a life of independence with support.

Interests and Hobbies

Listening to music, playing guitar, going to concerts, drawing/art, watching movies and going for walks with my dog.

Experience + Qualifications

• Started working in support work in 2021

• Cert 3 in Community Services

• Cert 4 Disability

• First Aid and CPR certificate

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW:

I love being able to increase an individuals independence whilst also improving quality of life. I also love being able to form meaningful connections and grow and learn new hobbies together!

Interests and Hobbies:

I love crafting whether it's colouring, painting or creating cards. I also love games both board games and video games.

I love exploring and going on random adventures whether that’s going for drives to find new places or going to all of the bunnings in Geelong on the hunt for the reduced plants! I've played the trumpet for over 15 years so I love to listen to and play music.

Experience + Qualifications:

When I was in high school I completed my cert 3 in childhood education so when I left school I went straight to working in the childcare field. After that I went into working in age care then moved into disability support where I’ve been for the last 2.5 years! I'm also currently studying a cert 4 in mental health part time which I'm absolutely loving!

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Being able to help out

Interests and Hobbies

• Reading,

• exercise,

• walking

Experience + Qualifications

Certificate 3 in Disability

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW:

Helping clients achieve their goals and making sure they feel supported. Building a long term relationship based on trust and positive energy. I enjoy being creative and trying out new hobbies with clients.

Interests and Hobbies

I hang out with my dog Kai most of the time. I love trying out new cafe’s and restaurants. I like to cook, read, crochet, going on walks and listening to all kinds of music. I enjoy binge watching shows and movies.

Experience + Qualifications

I have been in the healthcare industry for 7 years. I was a PCA at aged care for 4 years and been a support worker for 4 years. I was also a dental assistant clinical lead for 2 years. I have experience with different clients including dementia, ASD, ADHD, complex care and manual handling in all ages.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Being able to help others gives me such incredible joy. I thrive when people are in need, and I love the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022, which gives the client much more respect and rights. Being a DSW can be challenging and tough, but it is so incredibly important that clients get the help and attention they need. Bringing joy to others brings joy to myself.

Interests and Hobbies

I love painting and drawing (art in general), trading card games and chess, exploring waterfalls in the Otways and visiting rock pools to find beautiful little animals. Video games occasionally, studying is very interesting to me—any chance to learn new things is vital, and I'll always be the first to raise my hand to learn.

Experience + Qualifications

Volunteer work with Colac Area Health and Barwon Area Health, almost completed a dual Certificate IV in Mental Health and Alcohol & Other Drugs. I have life/lived experience with autistic and ADHD children, and I have worked with a children's card, and NDIS screening. Having worked in hospitality for such a long time, I have great people skills and am very adaptable to the current situation. I also have de-escalation tactics from working with drunk, violent, or aggressive people. I hold a Harvard certificate in the "General Management of Borderline Personality Disorder."

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Making a difference in the community and helping those in need of assistance.

Interests and Hobbies

I love skateboarding & Surfing in my spare time. I like playing video games and watching movies and Anime I enjoying watching AFL and NBA games

Experience + Qualifications

• Cert III Education Support Cert

• III Vet Sport & Rec

• 1 Year experience working as a lead educator at Armstrong Creek Primary School

• 4 Years experience as an instructor for Southern Exposure (Surfing, Kayaking, MTB)

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Helping people live their best life.

Interests and Hobbies

Cooking, gaming, movies, music, history, science

Experience + Qualifications

Diploma of community services, first aid and CPR, cook

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Supporting a person's self-development. Seeing them grow and live up to their full potential.

Interests and Hobbies

• Video games

• Bicycles

• Reading

• Fitness

Experience + Qualifications

Cert IV in Disability. Roughly two years of disability support experience; some in 1:1 community support, and most in residential support work. During my time as a support worker, I've become confident in the many responsibilities and important skills of support work. I've had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of people from many different ages and backgrounds, and all with different personalities, desires, perspectives, and goals in life. I've enjoyed my time perfecting my support skills and playing a part in many people's life journeys.

Disability Support Worker

Bio:

Libby Jane has been an educator for 30 years in areas such as English / Literacy, Conservation and Land Management, OHS, Workplace Skills and Education Support. 

In the last 20 years Libby Jane has turned her focus to supporting people with disabilities access the community, prepare for employment, meet their personal care needs and reach their goals. 

Libby Jane’s personal style is to have as much fun and laughter as possible while providing compassion and someone to talk to. 

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

I enjoy the connections with participants knowing that I have hopefully made a difference in their day to day. Each day is different depending on the needs of the participants and their individual goals. I also enjoy sharing a laugh and a good time developing confidence and social skills out in the community.

Interests and Hobbies

Nature, walks on the beach, animals, art, reading, current affairs, movies, music and much more!

Experience + Qualifications

I have been working with The Companion Group since March 2023 and really enjoy the role of Disability Support Worker. I have a Certificate in Home and Community Care and a Diploma in Children’s Services.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Assisting people in the community

Interests and Hobbies

Animals, travelling, trying out new restaurants/cafes, AFL (Geelong), tennis

Experience + Qualifications

• Certificate 4 Veterinary Nursing

• Certificate 3 Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)

• Certificate 4 Disability

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Being a DSW is amazing because you get to make a real difference, build meaningful relationships, see clients grow, have variety in your day, and feel proud of the impact you have.

Interests and Hobbies

I love spending time outdoors—surfing, going to the beach, and camping. I’m also really into painting, crafting, and anything creative. Plus, I have a big love for plants and animals!

Experience + Qualifications

I have nearly three years of experience working in disability support and as an educator in a special needs school. I hold certifications in first aid/CPR, asthma first aid for schools, manual handling, food safety, police check, Working With Children, and child protection training. I’m experienced, reliable, and passionate about supporting people to reach their goals.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

I enjoy the sense of confidence and achievement I see in people as they achieve their goals. I enjoy seeing the smile on their face when they have pride in themselves and are in the community.

Interests and Hobbies

I enjoy walking and all types of sport. I love to listen to music especially when I’m in the car or exercising. I find the beach and reading very relaxing. I love trying new foods to cook and eat. I love to travel and aspire to travel the world!

Experience + Qualifications

Bachelor Occupational Therapy

First aid + CPR certificates

I have had many leadership roles at school and in my sporting teams. I have worked at various workplaces where I have had many colleagues that I have built a relationship with. I have developing knowledge through my study and placement.

Disability Support Worker

Bio:

I’m an outgoing and empathetic paramedic graduate with 3 years of experience as a support worker. I have a particular interest in supporting people with dementia, ASD, vision impairments and chronic health conditions. I’m passionate about creating opportunities, encouraging independence and bringing a little fun to everyday life. I’m patient and easy-going, and enjoy connecting with children and older generations. Outside of support work, I'm usually busy playing volleyball or looking after my two guinea pigs!

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Helping others lead happy rich lives.

Interests and Hobbies

Art, music, fitness, outdoors/kayaking, cooking, fishing, bush/beach walking, film/literature/theatre. Building things using tools. Drives in the countryside.

Experience + Qualifications

Four years working in disability with all required industry qualifications.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Being able to support and make change to people's livesis incredibly rewarding. Each day offers a chance to connect with others, helping them overcome challenges and gain independence and confidence. My role lets me witness their growth, celebrate achievements, and make a positive impact that enriches their lives and brings me immense joy.

Interests and Hobbies

Sport, music and hanging out with matesI love staying active on weekends and enjoy music, whether playing or attending concerts. Spending time with friends, exploring cafes, or having a game night keeps me balanced and fuels my enthusiasm for life and work.

Experience + Qualifications

• Certificate IV in disability

• 5 years working experience

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Fulfilment in helping participants with their daily lives and helping them overcome most challenges and achieving their daily and long term goals.

Interests and Hobbies

I like playing and watching soccer, favorite league watching is the Premier league. I support Chelsea (the blues). I love art, visiting different art galleries and enjoy drawing. I do read books (Memoirs and self help books). I like PS 5 gaming (FC 2024) and board games (Mafia). I am interest in Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence and Automation.

Experience + Qualifications

Certificate IV in Disability and have completed 29 training courses with The Companion Group. I have had 3yrs 2 months experience working with various participants with different mental and physical difficulties. I have learnt to listen, care and advocate for participants well being.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

I find particularly rewarding the opportunity to improve the lives of clients and the rapport that comes from the continuity of care that I provide. I am keen to support clients in comfortable, independent living through the provision of home care and a range of community access activities.

Interests and Hobbies

Fitness I attend the Gym daily. I like collecting 70’s & 80’s fashion and collectables. Aromatherapy.

Experience + Qualifications

• Certificate III in business administration (Medical)

• Follow workplace hygiene procedures cert

• Associate diploma of health science in beauty therapy

• Associate diploma of fashion, design & production

I am a mother of nineteen years so I have plenty of experience in caring for children and running a household. I have been working as a disability support worker for the last five years and am inspired by the positive impact the services that we provide have on the lives of our clients. I am punctual, reliable, honest and dependable. I have good observation skills and strong attention to detail. I am most capable of working independently and as part of a team. I have the maturity to accept responsibility and follow all tasks through to completion. I value inclusiveness and am happy to engage with people from all backgrounds.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW:

Being able to help someone achieve their goal. Being able to see the joy in people who achieve something they have always wanted to achieve. Lastly being able to communicate and have a laugh to make someone’s day that little bit brighter.

Interests and Hobbies

I’ve got a huge passion for animals and horse riding. I love listening to music and having a dance. I love being able to support people on walks out in nature enjoying the sunshine.

Experience + Qualifications

Before joining The Companion Group I had the pleasure of working in a nursing home for three years. I have always had a passion for helping people achieve their goals. I have learnt a lot over the past few years of working in aged care about physical and mental challenges and ways of being able to support people through the challenges they may face. I am now working as a Disability support worker for The Companion Group. I love being able to give that one on one support to people and work through anything that may challenge them. Most of all lend a friendly ear and someone to talk and have a laugh with.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

I love the opportunity to build strong, trusting relationships with the individuals I support and to work alongside them in achieving meaningful goals. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a DSW is witnessing the growth, progress and confidence that can develop over time through support tailored to each individual's unique strengths, interests and aspirations.

Interests and Hobbies

I enjoy staying active by going to the gym, playing netball and spending time outdoors. I love being creative and enjoy cooking, baking and arts and crafts as well as exploring new places, experiences and foods. Above all, I value spending time with friends, family and my dogs.

Experience + Qualifications

I am currently in my fourth year of Speech Pathology studies with five years of disability support experience across community, early intervention and educational settings. I have experience supporting students with diverse learning goals as well as children within early intervention

programs. Through these experiences, I have developed strong skills in building rapport, adapting support approaches to individuals and delivering consistent, person-centred care.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Being a support worker I get to provide people with a disability personal, physical, and emotional support on a regular basis to help them feel independent, confident and a part of their community.

Interests and Hobbies

Travelling, exploring nature, music.

Experience + Qualifications

7 years aged care experience and 2 years in disability support work.

Certificate 3 in aged care

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Meeting people and support people who need help

Interests and Hobbies

• Swimming

• Walking

• Cooking

Experience + Qualifications

Certificate 4 in Disability

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

I love making real connections with people. Seeing someone smile because they feel supported or understood that is what makes this work so rewarding for me. Every small win feels big, and I am grateful to be part of that journey.

Interests and Hobbies

Outside of work, I am passionate about fitness. I enjoy playing tennis, going to the gym, and long walks to clear my mind. I am also really into tech, anime, and all things finance and business. Whether I am watching a new series, learning about markets, or exploring gadgets, I love staying curious and active.

Experience + Qualifications

I am a qualified early childhood teacher with experience in disability support. I have worked with diverse clients including neurodiverse children and elderly individuals providing empathetic, practical support. I hold a Graduate Diploma in Education and have all relevant clearances including First Aid, WWCC, Police Check, and NDIS Worker Screening.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

What I enjoy most about being a support worker is having the opportunity to make a positive impact in someone's day, no matter how big or small. I love getting to know each person, supporting them to achieve their goals, and encouraging their independence and confidence.

Interests and Hobbies

In my free time I enjoy cooking, reading, creating art, listening to music, spending time with family or friends and exploring new places.

Experience + Qualifications

Qualifications:

• CERTIFICATE III IN INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT - 01/06/2025

• ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS SKILL SET - 16/02/2026

• CERTIFICATE III IN COMMERCIAL COOKERY - 22/06/2018

• CERTIFICATE III IN PATISSERIE - 22/06/2018

Experience:

Commenced work as a Support Worker in May 2024 and have gained experience across a variety of support settings, including community access, Supported Independent Living (SIL) accommodation, and complex care. I have provided support to both paediatric and adult clients with diverse needs throughout this time. Before becoming a Support Worker, I spent 12 years working as a chef in a variety of hospitality settings, including hatted restaurants, fine dining venues, and cafés. If you enjoy cooking or would like to build your confidence in the kitchen, I'd love to cook alongside you! Whether it's preparing everyday meals, trying new recipes, meal prepping, or developing independent living skills, I'm always happy to tailor our time together to your interests, goals, and disabilities.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

My favourite part of being a Disability Support Worker is building trusting relationships with clients and supporting them to become more independent and achieve their personal goals. I enjoy making a positive difference in someone's daily life, whether that's helping them learn a new skill, participate in the community, or simply ensuring they feel valued and supported.

Interests and Hobbies

Singing,Dancing, Travelling, playing team sports and arts and crafts

Experience + Qualifications

I have 6 years in aged care and 2 years as a Disability Support Worker, with a strong focus on person-centred care. I also have 1 year of kitchen assistance experience.

Qualifications:

• Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing, Home and Community)

• Diploma in Hospitality

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW:

My favourite thing about being a support worker is getting to spend time with my clients and help them achieve their goals and have fun

Interests and Hobbies

• Animals

• Movies & TV

• Reading

Experience + Qualifications

• Certificate III early childhood education

• Certificate III Individual services

• Certificate IV Mental health services

• First Aid and CPR

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW:

Supporting my clients in their lives.

Interests and Hobbies

Reading books, listening to audiobooks and studying something new.

Experience + Qualifications

I have 5 years of experience in providing support to individuals with disabilities. I also have a Cert IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping. I had started studying for a Cert IV in Disability, but had to pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I plan to resume my studies soon. Additionally, I have completed a First Aid and CPR course.

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Being a disability support worker is a rewarding industry, seeing clients gain confidence and develop new skills. Helping people live independently, making a positive difference in someone's life, helping people participate in their community, and helping clients feel safe, valued, and respected.

Interests and Hobbies

Community engagement and helping others, singing in the church choir, volunteering, and community service. Building positive relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. Community Involvement: Going to the gym/sports, watching movies, and spending time with family.

Experience + Qualifications

• Certificate III in Individual Support

• 2022 Certificate III in Business

• 2021 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

• 2021 Certificate II in Health Support Services

• First Aid & CPR 2025 & CPR 2026

• Working with Children 2026 NDIS worker screen check

• Full VIC Driver license

• Manual Handling Training

Disability Support Worker

Favourite thing about being a DSW

Seeing my participants achieve their goals or make progress towards them, no matter how big or small. I also find great satisfaction in working closely with my coworkers, especially during manual handling tasks like hoisting, knowing we are keeping our participants safe, comfortable, and supported. Another meaningful part of my role is knowing that my work allows participants’ families to enjoy holidays or outings with peace of mind.

Experience + Qualifications

I have almost four years of experience as a disability support worker, providing a wide range of supports including personal care; hoist operations and transfers; manual and electric wheelchair use; transport using a van; bowel and catheter care; PEG feeding; and supporting individuals with epilepsy and cerebral palsy and more. I hold a Certificate III in Individual Support

Interests and Hobbies

I enjoy staying active and healthy through regular workouts, with judo being a major part of my life. Judo is a family sport for us, and I enjoy both training and competing. Outside of sport, I’m a passionate foodie and love discovering good food and drinks with my husband, whether we’re dining out or enjoying something new together. I also value spending quality time with family and friends, as these moments help me recharge and maintain a positive balance in life.