Caring for our elderly is one of the most important roles in our ageing society, and also one of the least acknowledged!

So, it was a wonderful recognition for Dubbo local, quality officer Ashley Senekal, who was recently honoured with retirement provider RFBI’s 2025 Employee of the Year award.

Two other staff and two teams from the Dubbo facility were also nominated for gongs on the night, in categories ranging from Services Employee of the Year; Volunteer of the Year; Mentor of the Year; Team of the Year; Cook/Chef of the Year; and Happiest Village of the Year.

"I could not be prouder of Ashley, she is great asset to us,” RFBI Dubbo Masonic Village General Manager, Delwyn Gates, said after her win.

“Ashley is universally respected by my team and in all the villages she has worked for,” she added.

RFBI – from the “Royal Freemason’s Benevolent Institution” – was founded in 1880 to assist people in need, and today is an award-winning not-for-profit aged care provider operating a total of 22 residential care villages, 20 retirement villages, and a range of other home care services and benevolence programs across NSW and the ACT.

This fact made Ashley’s win – announced at a special award ceremony at the Sydney Masonic Centre in late September with hundreds of guests present – even more worthy, Ms Gates said.

”Her work ensures the comprehensive and safe care of our residents,” Ms Gates explained.

“This award is testament to her efforts and the contribution she makes to RFBI,” she added.

Ashley’s award acknowledgement listed the highest of standards to which she aspires to in her working life, day-in, day-out.

“Ashley has an unwavering commitment to service and excellence,” the award stated.

“She is respected and appreciated by colleagues and village residents, she leads by example, is always available, always reliable and always putting people first,” it continued.

“Ashley is an exceptional quality officer who supports multiple villages across the organisation with skill, dedication and compassion.

“Her work is essential to maintaining high standards in clinical care, documentation and continuous improvement.

“From auditing systems to preparing for accreditation, reviewing resident data and mentoring staff, she plays a vital behind-the-scenes role that has a direct and lasting impact on resident wellbeing.

“Known for her collaborative spirit and deep knowledge of quality standards, Ashley never hesitates to step in and support where needed.

“She identifies gaps, guides teams to implement improvements and ensures that residents receive safe and consistent care.

“Whether reviewing trends in clinical data or supporting new quality officers, she does it with professionalism and heart. Her support has been instrumental in helping many villages achieve outstanding accreditation outcomes,” her award concluded.