What’s it like to work for the Y? Get an insight through these team members’ career journey and time at the Y.

Leading by example: Meet Annette, General Manager of Inclusion Services at the Y
Annette’s story is one of passion, commitment, and personal growth, spanning over two decades of making a difference in the lives of others.
Annette’s career in the disability sector began with a simple but profound desire: to make a meaningful impact. She wanted to create the kind of care and support she would hope for her own family members if they were in need. This personal connection to her work has been the driving force behind her 20-year journey in the sector.
“I wanted to be in a role that focused on helping others, particularly those who may not always have the same opportunities or support,” Annette reflects.
Her first role as a 1:1 Home and Community Support Worker was both exciting and challenging. She was eager to contribute but quickly realised the importance of tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Annette joined Y Whittlesea as a WRAP Social Support Worker, where she built connections with participants and staff that continue to inspire her today. “I quickly realised that I learned just as much from the clients I worked with as they did from me,” she shares. These early experiences laid the foundation for a career centred on collaboration, empathy, and mutual growth.
Throughout her time at the Y, Annette has embraced continuous learning. From leadership training to mentoring opportunities, she has built on her qualifications—including an Advanced Diploma in Community Sector Management and certificates in Mental Health and Government Investigations—to grow both personally and professionally.
Today, as General Manager of Inclusion Services, Annette’s role is as diverse as it is impactful. She oversees compliance, fosters team culture, drives innovation, manages finances, and builds strong partnerships—all while maintaining a steadfast focus on achieving positive outcomes for people with disabilities and their families.
“It’s a role that blends multiple facets, all aimed at driving progress, ensuring a cohesive team, and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve,” she explains.
Annette’s journey in the sector has shaped her into a strategic and solution-focused leader. She has learned to see the bigger picture, enabling her to make a lasting impact. What she finds most rewarding, however, is the way her professional and personal lives intersect.
“I love being able to connect with my client community alongside my family,” Annette says. “It’s inspiring to watch my children learn from the people I work with and see the positive impact of these relationships.”
Looking back, Annette’s advice to her younger self is clear: “You can make anything happen as long as you have passion and drive. Surround yourself with likeminded people, stay focused, and trust that the right support will be there when you need it.”
What sets the Y apart, according to Annette, is its unwavering commitment to its clients. The Y doesn’t just provide support; it mentors, collaborates, and empowers people with disabilities to build independence, community connections, and friendships.
“The outcomes we see—growth, confidence, and success—are what truly set us apart and inspire us every day,” Annette concludes.
Annette’s story is a testament to the power of purpose-driven work. Her journey at the Y continues to inspire both her team and the community she serves.

From Teacher’s Aide to Community Camping Director: Toni's Journey with the Y
Meet Toni, the inspiring Community Camping Director at the Y, whose dedication to the disability sector has helped transform lives and create lasting memories.
Toni’s journey began in a different field entirely. While completing a diploma placement in early childhood, she joined a camp with the Mansfield Autistic Centre. Supporting children and their families during camp ignited a passion that reshaped her career aspirations. “I guess you could say I was bitten with the camping bug,” Toni recalls.
Her first role in the disability sector was as a teacher’s aide at Bulleen Heights Special School, working with children with autism. At the same time, she began volunteering for People Outdoors, gaining hands-on experience. Though she found the first few months overwhelming, she was eager to learn. “The most challenging part was supporting students with complex needs and behaviours and not taking the emotional aspects of the job home.”
When Toni joined Y Whittlesea as a Disability Camp Support Worker, she was struck by the organisation’s inclusivity and welcoming environment. “Everyone was genuinely excited to meet me, from the CEO to the support staff. I felt supported and part of a team from the beginning,” she shares.
Over the years, Toni’s role has evolved significantly. Now managing a team of two coordinators and 70 casual staff, she oversees a thriving camping program that runs 50 camps annually. These camps not only provide families with much-needed respite but also empower participants to build skills and achieve incredible milestones. “Seeing participants achieve things they never thought possible—like conquering the giant swing or performing in a talent show—makes it all worth it,” she says.
Professional growth has been a cornerstone of Toni’s time at the Y. She’s participated in leadership and disability-specific training, which has bolstered her skills, knowledge, and confidence. Reflecting on her journey, Toni marvels at her growth: “I’ve moved from being a support worker to managing an entire department. It’s been an incredible transformation.”
For Toni, the Y stands out as a workplace that genuinely values its staff and the people they support. “The Y is more than just a job; it’s a place where the work we do makes a huge difference, whether it’s supporting participants, creating experiences and memories, or building communities,” she says.
Her advice to those starting out in the sector? “Listen to those who know the participants best—whether it’s the participants themselves, their families, or colleagues. Have fun, keep the participants at the heart of everything you do, and remember to empower them to take control of their own lives. Challenging days will come, but the great ones far outweigh them.”
Toni’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Through her work, she continues to make a meaningful impact—one camp, one participant, and one incredible moment at a time.

A Career Built on Community: Meet Sarah
Growing up in a family of CFA volunteer firefighters, Sarah’s parents instilled in her a deep sense of community responsibility. “I’ve always had a passion for community,” she says. It’s no surprise that this foundation led her to a career in the disability sector, starting 15 years ago with the Department of Human Services (now DHHS).
Sarah recalls her nerves during those early days. “I had never worked in the sector before, and I was concerned about how to communicate with non-verbal participants,” she shares. However, she quickly discovered the many ways to connect beyond words, building a skill set that would serve her well throughout her career.
When Sarah joined Y Whittlesea as a Camp Coordinator nearly a year ago, she was blown away by the supportive environment. “I’d heard great things about working for the Y, but I never imagined I’d feel such a sense of family,” she says.
In her role, Sarah plans under-18 and small group camps, creating fun, inclusive programs that match participants and staff based on their interests and needs. She liaises with campsites and ensures every detail is tailored to provide meaningful support for families and unforgettable experiences for participants.
For Sarah, the best part of the job is the personal connections. “Getting to know the participants and their families is the highlight,” she says. “Seeing the smiles on their faces makes it all worthwhile.”
Since starting at the Y, Sarah has embraced professional development, including training to become an APO. Her extensive experience across various roles in the sector gives her a unique perspective. “I’ve worked in most roles and understand the challenges each one faces,” she explains. “I believe you can’t ask someone to do a job unless you’ve done it yourself.”
This hands-on approach has shaped her leadership style and reinforced her belief in acting with integrity. Her advice to her younger self? “You can’t control everything, but you can control how you react. As long as you act with people’s best interests at heart, it will always be okay.”
Sarah firmly believes that the Y stands out among providers. “We go above and beyond to ensure that no one is left behind,” she says. This ethos aligns perfectly with her values and has made her proud to be part of a team that genuinely cares for its staff and participants.
Sarah’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make when they combine their skills, passion, and dedication to a cause. Her story is an invitation to others considering a career in the disability sector to take the leap and discover the rewards that come from making a difference.