Kuraby support worker Luke Moran has been celebrated on the national stage for helping his disabled client achieve his dream of becoming a competitive swimmer.
Mr Moran is one of 10 support workers to win a prize at the 2023 Hireup Good Life Awards.
He was selected from a pool of over 550 nominated disability support workers from across the country.
His client, who has asked not to be named, nominated Mr Moran for the $1000 cash prize because of the “crucial role” he played in helping him reach his dream.
“Luke goes above and beyond,” Mr Moran’s client said.
“He organises all the logistics for my swimming comps, from transportation to ensuring I have the necessary equipment and assistance.
“Thanks to Luke’s support, I not only participated but also won several medals in local competitions – a dream I thought was out of reach for me.”
He said Mr Moran helped improve his quality of life.
Mr Moran said it was “nice to be recognised” for his work, but he wasn’t expecting it.
“Winning the award is a significant honour at this stage of my support worker journey, but my focus has and will always be on the support I provide and my client’s satisfaction,” he said.
“I love being a support worker because it allows me to genuinely support someone in the pursuit of a good life, which is what drew me to it.
“I’ve been fortunate to lead a life without daily limits, and I recognise that not everyone may have the same experience – that’s why providing someone else with that opportunity is important to me.
“I also get to witness the joy on my client’s face as they engage in activities I often take for granted and that is incredibly fulfilling.
Mr Moran was inspired and encouraged to become a support worker by his fiancé and brother, who were both support workers.
“The big responsibility of looking after someone else and the uncertainty that came with it had me doubting myself at the start of my journey – so for my client to nominate me for Hireup’s Good Life Awards must mean I am doing something right.”
Hireup director of support workers, Jamie Crosbie, said support workers go uncelebrated too often, despite making a “positive difference every day”.
“Our Good Life Awards are changing this,” Mr Crosbie said.
“The Good Life Awards nominees are identified by the individuals and families they care for.
“These awards are the definition of grassroots recognition – they celebrate real and meaningful impact and change in the lives of not just individuals, but their families and communities too.”
“This year’s 10 winners exemplify how people living with disability can gain independence and connection with their community when their support requirements are met consistently.”
