9 October 2025
Southern Cross Care recently welcomed five enthusiastic hospitality students for hands-on work experience at our St Anne’s, Harold Williams, and Aruma Lodge residential care homes in Broken Hill.
Under the guidance of our staff, the students from Willyama High School quickly became part of the team. They assisted with meal preparation, supported lunch service in the dining pods and stepped in whenever extra hands were needed in the main kitchen.
Their enthusiasm was contagious, uplifting staff, and delighting residents who enjoyed seeing young people in their communities.
Many residents stopped to chat and share stories with the students, with one particularly moving moment occurring when a student recognised an old neighbour in the dining room.
Their emotional reunion brought joyful tears and reminded everyone of the deep connections within the small community.
Our Hospitality Services Coordinator, Ashley Pascoe, said the program is a win-win, “It’s a great learning tool for students to be hands-on, but it’s also a gift for our residents, who enjoy chatting with the students and seeing their energy. Broken Hill is a small town, and this is one of the ways we give back to the community.”
The initiative not only supports the next generation of hospitality workers but also strengthens SCC’s ties to the regional community. Many students leave with a clearer sense of whether a career in aged care is for them and a deeper appreciation of the role food and service play in people’s lives. “Thank you for taking us on board for our work placement and making us feel welcome,” said the students. “We have really enjoyed being a part of the experience.”
