Meet Ruth Robertson - 40 years of service

At BlueCare, our story is built on the dedication of people who choose to spend not just years, but decades, helping others live with dignity, comfort and care. When someone devotes their career to our mission, it’s more than just time served.

In this series, we’re proud to share the journeys of staff who’ve dedicated their careers to BlueCare. Their stories are part of our legacy – and our future.

Meet Ruth Robertson - Assistant in Nursing – 40 years of service

‘If you have the passion and heart for it, it is one of the most rewarding careers there is.’

How did your journey with BlueCare begin?

I started at the Toowoomba Garden Settlement in 1975 (now BlueCare Toowoomba Aged Care Facility) at 16. I was cleaning and working in the kitchen at the time before moving into the hospital sector, where I began my 40+ year journey as an Assistant in Nursing (AIN).

From caring for a patient with severe alcohol withdrawal to witnessing a baby’s delivery, I saw a lot at a young age. Some moments were overwhelming, but they sparked my lifelong career. Nursing my grandfather through these formative years definitely played a role too!

What have been some of the highlights of your 40 years with BlueCare?

The families are the highlight I’ll always cherish. You care for their loved ones, and there’s a deep trust that comes from that. I’m still in touch with some of them today.

My son grew up around the facility too and often came to work after school—skating around and chatting with residents who adored him.

The life stories! Once you get to know the people who live here, you’re surrounded by a lifetime of wisdom, stories and experiences. It’s a real privilege to hear them.

What are some of the challenges in your role and the aged care sector?

There have been many highs and lows. Losing colleagues is especially hard—the staff become like family and over the years, I’ve lost seven peers to cancer.

I’ve seen a lot of beloved residents pass away. You get close to them and their families, you spend a great deal of time together and create positive memories together. To lose a resident can also feel like losing their family, you become close, then know you’re going to be saying goodbye to them too as you’re not going to see many of them again.

With 40 years in aged care, what would you say to those interested in a career with BlueCare?

Our residents are not just ‘clients’. They’re someone’s mother, father, or grandparent. Treat them as you’d want your own loved ones treated.

Good training and the right attitude are essential too. There’s always more to learn, and a positive mindset makes every day better! This can be challenging work, but if you have the passion and heart for it, it’s one of the most rewarding careers there is.