OUR TEAM

DEDICATED TO MAKING A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE

DCIRS currently has a diverse and skilled team of staff members. Please reach out so we can find the perfect fit for you!

Emily

Managing Director

I am the founder and Managing Director of DCIRS Community Care, with many years of experience across aged care and disability. Alongside leading the organisation, I have also worked as an enrolled nurse within our local health services, all of which keeps me closely connected to the needs of the people and communities we support.

DCIRS was established in response to a genuine need within our local community. Having called Donald home for two decades, I saw the opportunity to create a service that not only supports people to remain independent at home, but also strengthens the community through meaningful employment and a positive team culture.

At the heart of DCIRS is a strong focus on people — both the participants we support and the team we work alongside. I am passionate about building a workplace where compassion, respect, and integrity are part of everyday practice, and where our team feels supported to make a real difference.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my two adult children, family & friends and playing the guitar & singing.

I am proud of what DCIRS has become and look forward to continuing to grow a service that supports independence, builds connections, and contributes positively to our community.

Chana

Operations Manager

I’m Chana, and I’ve been working in the community sector for over six years, with three years in care management. I joined DCIRS Community Care in early 2025 as a Community Services Coordinator, where I get to do what I love, helping people live more independent and empowered lives. My passion for working in disability support began at home. I have family members living with disabilities, and that personal connection is what inspired me to start my journey in this field. It gave me a deep understanding of the importance of dignity, choice, and meaningful support.

I hold a Bachelor’s in Visual Communication, an Advanced Diploma in Community Sector Management, a Diploma of Community Services, and Cert IV in Disability and Cert IV in Youth & Family Intervention. My focus is on supporting individuals to maintain their freedom, make their own choices, and feel confident in their journey.

I’m proud to be part of a team that shares my passion for making a real difference every day.

Zoe

Junior Administrative Assistant

My name is Zoe, I am fresh out of school and was lucky enough to land this job with DCIRS Community Care during my exams at the end of 2024. I have always had a passion for making sure others are able live life to the fullest, this led me to have a variety of customer service jobs during school and now wanting to pursue the health field for my future.

I had picked up a variety of language studies through my years including sign language, Japanese, Indonesian, German, and Norwegian as I am always wanting to learn new things.

I find joy in a good project, crafting, reading, as well as the comfort of my alone time, especially when I am in nature.

I am loving my time with DCIRS working in the office and gaining experience in many areas, as well as being a support worker gaining hands on knowledge while studying.

Community Support Worker

Josie

I am currently employed as a professional Care Provider by DCIRS Community Care. I am friendly, energetic, motivated and organised. I aim to support and empower every person I encounter through work and life. I hope to make a difference to everyone I meet.

I obtained my Cert 1V in Community Services (Aged care) and have 18 years’ experience working in the Aged Care sector. I am trained to provide care to participants in both medical and personal capacities. I also hold a Cert 11 in Hospitality (Kitchen operations), Current Food Safety, CPR and First Aid Certificates. I have also been a registered Foster Carer, Family Day Care Provider and volunteer child carer over the past 30 years, meeting the educational, physical and mental needs of children with differing abilities and cross-cultural experiences. In my spare time I enjoy, family, reading, crafting and learning new things. I look forward to inspiring participants along their personal developmental journey across all ages.

Audrey

Community Support Worker

My name is Audrey and was lucky enough to join the team at DCIRS Community Care in October 2022. I am friendly and outgoing, energetic, motivated, I love goals and challenges, meeting people and travelling.

I live in St Arnaud with Tessa and Bella my two dogs. Since immigrating to Australia from Scotland, my education and working journey has been amazing, reinventing myself for my next journey. I was working data entry and computer operation moving into accountancy, then headed back to university studying Aged Care and Disability.

I decided it was time to leave Melbourne get out of the rat race. I purchased a farm in Greens Creek (just outside Stawell) where we ran South African Boer Goats, Stud and Commercial farming for the meat market. We were the 3 rd biggest Boer Goat farm in Victoria. Prior to covid I sold the farm and went back to Scotland. During covid I did a refresher course in accountancy not knowing where my next journey would lead me to.

Then DCIRS came along and here I am – happy and loving my job. The staff, clients and participants are great to work with, making my job worth jumping out of bed each day.

Naomi

Community Support Worker

I’ve been working for DCIRS Community Care since October 2020. At home, I’m a mum of 2 primary school age children and enjoy spending time with family and friends. I also enjoy going on adventures and sightseeing.

This is my first time in the industry but I have always had a passion for helping people. I’ve previously studied Certificate II in community services and am very much enjoying my position here. I will also soon be going on to complete Certificate 3 in Individual Support. I am caring and compassionate and look forward to my growing future in this very rewarding career path.

Community Support Worker

Jackie

Hi I'm Jackie and I'm from Warracknabeal. I like chatting with people, helping people reach goals and supporting people to maintain independence. I'll be your biggest cheerleader no matter the goal!

I'm a mum of 3 and happily married. I was a disability support worker at university, where I was studying my Bachelor of Nursing. Since then, I have worked across different areas of nursing until health issues got in the way. Now I do the best job of helping and caring for people in their own environment.

My mission in life is to have as much fun as possible, and I will always find a way of putting a smile on everyone’s face. I look forward to meeting new participants and having a laugh together.

Community Support Worker

Linda

I have been a foster mother for many years and have had some amazing children in my care. I’ve also worked in a day care and really enjoyed working with the children. Recently I completed a community care course and was lucky enough to get placement and now a position with DCIRS which I’m enjoying.

I’m a mother of seven wonderful children but have only got two at home now, I am extremely lucky to have eight beautiful and healthy grandchild who are my world. I enjoy gardening and listening to music my favourite band is AC/DC but what I enjoy the most is having a good chat over a cuppa with my friends and family.

Community Support Worker

Chrystal

I am married with 5 children. We moved to St Arnaud in January 2022 from Geelong VIC. I love animals and am slowly building up a little hobby farm of my own, I also enjoy getting out into the garden in my spare time and ATTEMPTING to grow some of our own food (I’m still learning).

Other things I enjoy include cooking/baking, music (all kinds), crafts, fishing, COFFEE and spending quality time with my family.

I started working with DCIRS in September 2024. Meeting new people and being able to make positive impacts on people’s lives is an extremely rewarding experience and I absolutely love my role here as a support worker.

Community Support Worker

Stan

After 22 years in the caravan industry, I needed a change, something slower, more connected, and truly meaningful. In early 2025, my beautiful wife, our two lovely children, and my amazing father joined me in moving from Geelong to Donald, drawn by the warmth of a close-knit community. It’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made.

I began studying Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) to pursue a career that feeds the soul. Joining DCIRS Community Care has been life changing. Each day, I support participants in building independence and navigating daily tasks. Being part of this community, both as a resident and a support worker, has given me the purpose I was searching for.

I’ve never been happier. I truly believe I’ve found where I’m meant to be.

Shannon

Community Support Worker

My name is Shannon, and I live in Warracknabeal with my husband and our two children. I was born and raised in Darwin, and my husband and I moved to Warracknabeal in 2013, where we have enjoyed becoming part of the local community.

I started with DCIRS in December 2021 and genuinely love what I do. I enjoy supporting people to maintain their independence and quality of life. I hold a Certificate III in Individual Support (Home and Community) and have also completed extensive dementia care studies through Dementia Australia and the University of Tasmania’s Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre.

In addition to my work in community care, I hold a Diploma of Photography. Outside of work, I enjoy crocheting, movies, and spending time with my family. I am passionate about providing compassionate, person-centred support and making a positive difference in the lives of the people I work with.

Community Support Worker

David

Hi, I'm David, I am married to Genette who is the reason I now live in Donald. I'm the father of five children and grandfather of six beautiful grandchildren.

I am a dedicated Christian and my job with DCIRS allows me to do what I love the most, showing God's love by assisting people live a fuller life.

I have been a dairy farmer most of my life and a motor mechanic for some. Being a Community Support Worker has been a positive and amazing change.

Community Support Worker

Brianna

My name is Brianna, but I prefer to be called Bree. I am 26 in October. I moved to Horsham, Victoria 16 years ago from a town called Newcastle in NSW.

I have a baby boy and his name is Blakey. I have worked in many different fields, but by far enjoying working in the field I am in now the most as a disability and aged care support worker. I enjoy being adventurous and being involved with the community, and I love meeting new people.

Community Support Worker

Emma-Lee

I’m Emma-Lee, mum of 2. I’m a support worker, I have been for near 3 years now and being able to help others achieve their goals and gain independence is why I love my job, it’s extremely rewarding.

Paul

Community Support Worker

My name is Paul and I’m married with 4 Children. I enjoy all sports, love spending time with my family, and I really enjoy helping people and making a difference in people’s lives.

Gary

Community Support Worker

Hi my name is Gary, I am married, I have 2 children and I am a grandfather to 8 and also a great grandfather. I very much enjoy being a support worker, I enjoy helping people and feeling like I make a difference in their lives.

Community Support Worker

Carley

I am a dedicated and compassionate Support Worker with over a year of experience working with DCIRS, supporting individuals to live safely, independently, and with dignity in their own homes. I am passionate about delivering person-centred care and empowering participants to achieve their goals while maintaining their independence and quality of life.

A key strength of mine is advocating for the people I support, ensuring they have access to the appropriate services and resources that meet their individual needs, preferences, and aspirations. I take pride in building positive, trusting relationships and providing support that promotes choice, respect, and inclusion.

Outside of my professional role, I enjoy cooking, fashion, travelling, and supporting my daughter through her netball activities. I also have two beloved young dogs who bring great joy and balance to my life. These interests reflect my caring nature, strong family values, and appreciation for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others through empathy, professionalism, and a genuine passion for supporting people to live their best lives.

Tash

Administration/Reception

I love working for a company that actively assists our community members, we are making a difference by bridging the gap between diagnosis and care. I am proud to be a part of this amazing service. My role in admin suits me perfectly as I am a people person and enjoy connecting with our staff, participants, and community members through my job.

My proudest achievements in life are my children and grandchildren who I live for and plan my life around. When not spending time with them I like to bake, craft, sew, and renovate furniture. I love to read and devour books of all genres. I enjoy going to our local football, netball and hockey games and know exactly how I will spend the funds if I ever win the joker poker when out for a meal at our local pub.

Quality & Safety Officer

Tan

My name is Tan, and I joined DCIRS in early 2026 as the Quality and Safety Officer. I bring with me more than 10 years of experience in the childcare sector, along with a background in Individual Support. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about supporting people, building positive relationships, and helping create safe, welcoming, and high-quality environments.

In January 2025, I moved from Geelong to Donald with my husband, our two beautiful children, and my much-loved father-in-law. Since making the move, I have enjoyed becoming part of the local community and embracing the opportunities that come with regional living.

My experience working with children, families, and individuals with diverse needs has shaped my compassionate and people-centred approach. At DCIRS, I am committed to promoting quality, safety, and continuous improvement while supporting our team to deliver the best possible outcomes for the people we support. I take pride in contributing to a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.

Quality & Compliance Manager

Jesmon

My name is Jesmon Joy Karippery and I am a Donald-based legal, compliance, and governance professional with experience in regulatory frameworks, risk management, and corporate oversight. I hold a BSc in Zoology (Conservation Zoology), MSc in Biotechnology (Animal Biotechnology), and MA in Psychology (Counselling), plus certifications in IT (including Red Hat, Microsoft, CompTIA Security+, and Cisco), Cyber Security, Mental Health, and Disability Support.

Currently serving as Quality and Compliance Manager at DCIRS Community Care with four years in the community and health sector, I combine legal, psychosocial, and technical literacy to navigate complex regulatory environments where technology and governance intersect.

Beyond work, my passions include Indian elephant husbandry, PC building, and lifelong learning—qualities that strengthen my dedication to safeguarding rights for Australians with disability. I lives in Donald with my assistance dog in training, Miss Dally Karippery, and spend my leisure time reading and studying.