Dunsborough Residential Archives

Building confidence and compassion in palliative care

May 14, 2026/in Busselton, Busselton Residential, Community, Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, News, Organisational news, Residential, Respite, Staff, Time to Think

Capecare nursing and care staff have taken part in specialised education and training during National Palliative Care Week, strengthening their skills and confidence in supporting residents, clients and families through end-of-life care.

Staff from our Busselton, Dunsborough and Community teams participated in the Program of Experience in the Palliative Approach (PEPA), delivered by an Aged Care Nurse Educator Charlotte Coulson from QUT Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre across two dedicated two-day training programs.

Our staff were freed from their usual workloads to fully immerse themselves in the learning experience, reflecting Capecare’s commitment to quality care and professional development.

The PEPA program supports the aged care workforce to build knowledge, practical skills and confidence in providing compassionate palliative and end-of-life care.

Through interactive workshops, discussions and scenario-based learning, staff explored communication, symptom management, advance care planning and ways to support residents and families during some of life’s most challenging moments.

At Capecare, we understand that compassionate palliative care is about far more than clinical support. It is about dignity, empathy, connection and ensuring people feel safe, respected and cared for throughout every stage of their journey.

This training helps equip our teams with the confidence and understanding to have meaningful conversations, respond to individual needs and provide comfort-focused care with compassion and professionalism.

The PEPA training was funded through an Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care grant.

We thank all staff who participated for their commitment to continuous learning and for the compassionate care they provide to our residents, clients and families every day.

Our Nurses Our Future – The many paths of nursing at Capecare

May 11, 2026/in Busselton, Busselton Residential, Community, Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, News, Organisational news, Residential, Respite, Staff, Time to Think, Uncategorised

This year’s International Nurses Day theme, Our Nurses. Our Future recognises the vital role nurses play in shaping stronger healthcare systems and healthier communities for generations to come.

At Capecare, that future is reflected in the many ways our nurses care, lead, educate and connect every day.

From graduate nurses beginning their careers to internationally experienced clinicians, educators, care coordinators and clinical leaders, nursing at Capecare is as diverse as the people who choose it.

Across residential aged care, community services and clinical leadership, Capecare’s nursing team brings compassion, expertise and humanity to every stage of ageing.

Learning and Leading

“I wanted to help develop the nurses of the future.” – Lisa Roberts

Lisa Roberts, Nurse Educator

For Nurse Educator Lisa Roberts, nursing has come full circle.

Originally from England, Lisa began her working life in aged care as a teenager and now supports and mentors nurses as Capecare’s Nurse Educator.

“I always wanted to be a nurse,” Lisa said.

“I worked from a Health Care worker up to Nurse Educator and learnt so much on the way from my peers and from the amazing people I have cared for.”

Throughout her career, Lisa has worked across acute care, community nursing and cancer services, experiences she says shaped both her perspective and her passion for teaching future nurses.

“I wanted to help develop the nurses of the future – how to care for people, to walk in their shoes and ensure they show dignity and respect.”

For Lisa, aged care nursing is deeply personal. “I feel it’s a privilege looking after our elders as they have so much life experience and tales to tell.”

Clinical Manager Satinder Gill also sees nursing as a profession filled with opportunity for growth.

After relocating from New Zealand, Satinder joined Capecare seeking new opportunities and leadership development.

“I chose Capecare for the growth opportunities and the chance to further enhance my skills and experience,” she said.

“What’s special about aged care nursing is supporting elderly people when they need it most while helping maintain their dignity and quality of life.”

Nursing careers can take many different paths

“One thing nursing has never been is boring.” – Kate Moore

Kate Moore, Primary Care Coordinator

Nursing offers diversity throughout a career.

For Primary Care Coordinator Kate Moore, no two days, or career stages, are ever the same.

“The best thing about nursing is the endless variety,” Kate said. “Every role brings new experiences, new people and new opportunities.”

Kate said her own experiences supporting ageing family members sparked a growing interest in aged care and helping people navigate complex systems.

“That experience inspired me to be part of making aged care more accessible, supportive and easier to understand for others.”

Rajesh Kharel also sees nursing as a profession filled with challenge, growth and constant learning.

Rajesh relocated from Finland to Australia seeking greater career opportunities and professional development within healthcare.

“Australia offers much better, faster career growth and higher-level opportunities for nurses,” he said.

Now working at Capecare, Rajesh says the diversity of nursing is what continues to inspire him.

“The different skills, emotions, challenges and opportunities make nursing a very exciting profession and I feel it makes me a better person every day.”

While acknowledging the emotional demands of nursing, Rajesh believes those experiences are also what make aged care meaningful.

“Working in aged care is a profound emotional journey – a mix of joy, attachment and loss.”

“It involves fostering deep, personal connections with residents and sharing in their life stories.”

Community Clinical Services Lead Lee Winning agrees that nursing opens unexpected doors.

“The diversity of career options and the flexibility to work regionally and remotely has allowed me to continue to grow in my role,” Lee said.

Lee’s nursing career has evolved from mental health and community nursing in the UK through to diabetes education, care coordination and clinical leadership roles in Australia.

“From there I moved into program management and now love supporting clinical staff, maintaining safe work practices and improving service delivery.”

The relationships at the heart of aged care nursing

“Residents aren’t just patients — you really get to know them.” – Jess Lou

Jess Lou, Registered Nurse

For many nurses at Capecare, the most rewarding part of aged care nursing is the relationships built with residents and families over time.

Registered Nurse Jess Lou said those connections are what make aged care unique.

“What I love most about nursing is the connection you build with people,” Jess said.

“You support someone not only clinically, but emotionally as well, helping them feel safe, heard and cared for during vulnerable moments.”

As a graduate nurse beginning her career, Jess said aged care offered the opportunity to form meaningful relationships while continuing to learn and grow professionally.

“Residents aren’t just patients you see briefly. You really get to know them, their histories, personalities and what matters most to them.”

Registered Nurse Shauna Renwick said supporting people through difficult times can be both rewarding and emotional.

“As cliched as it sounds, I love helping people,” she said. “It is very rewarding being able to support people through a hard time and help someone get closer to their health goals.”

Shauna relocated from Queensland to the South West and said the region’s coastline and community lifestyle made it an easy decision to stay.

“Aged care is special because you develop a great friendship with elderly clients from supporting them on an ongoing basis.”

International nurses bringing global experience to local care

“I am caring for someone else’s parents here.” – Tara Devi

Capecare Registered Nurse Tara Devi

Capecare’s nursing workforce also reflects the increasingly global nature of healthcare, with nurses bringing experience and perspectives from around the world.

Float Registered Nurse Tara Devi has worked in nursing for more than 25 years across Bhutan and Australia, including completing a PhD in Palliative Care.

“What I love about nursing is that special opportunity to be in people’s lives when it is often the most difficult times,” Tara said. “I hold that honour and privilege very close.”

After returning to Australia to reunite with family, Tara joined Capecare to continue her nursing journey in aged care.

“What I found special in aged care nursing is the bond we develop with residents and their families.”

In one of the most heartfelt reflections shared by the nursing team, Tara explained how caring for older people connects deeply to her own family.

“I often say I am not able to care for my ageing parents who are in Bhutan, but I am caring for someone else’s parents here — and that gives me immense joy.”

The future of care

International Nurses Day is an opportunity to recognise not only the care nurses provide today, but also the future they are helping shape.

At Capecare, nurses continue to play a vital role across residential care, community services, education, leadership and clinical innovation, supporting older people to live with dignity, comfort and connection.

From graduate nurses beginning their journey to experienced clinicians mentoring the next generation, each nurse brings their own story, strengths and pathway to the profession.

Together, they are helping shape the future of care in the South West.

PALM team members become permanent Capecare employees

April 7, 2026/in Busselton, Busselton Residential, Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, News, Staff

It’s hard to believe it’s been four years since our first group of PALM team members (Pacific Australia Labour Mobility) arrived from Fiji, bringing warmth, energy and a welcome boost to our Capecare team.

They joined Capecare at a time when the aged care sector was facing significant workforce shortages following COVID. Through our partnership with HealthX, we were able to welcome qualified and compassionate carers to support our residents and existing staff.

This first intake was particularly significant, as it was the first group of Pacific Island workers HealthX supported to come to Western Australia after state borders reopened.

Over the past four years, these team members have grown their skills and experience in aged care, while forming meaningful connections with residents and colleagues.

We’re now proud to celebrate an exciting milestone – four of the original six team members, Tama, Vika, Lomani and Lita, are now officially permanent Capecare employees.

Capecare Chief People Officer Pip Ayre commended the group for their hard work and dedication, and for the genuine care and kindness they show our residents every day.

Each of the women is now sponsored by Capecare on temporary resident visas, providing a pathway to permanent residency. This also opens the door for them to reunite with their families here in Australia.

The milestone was celebrated with a special afternoon tea — generously organised by the team themselves as a heartfelt gesture of thanks.

four older ladies working on painting in a group

Celebrating Creativity at Capecare Dunsborough

March 25, 2026/in Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, News, Residential

Creativity is thriving at Capecare Dunsborough, where a dedicated group of residents comes together each week to explore their artistic talents.

The weekly art group has become a much-loved activity, offering residents the opportunity to paint, draw, and express themselves in a relaxed and supportive environment. From vibrant abstract pieces to detailed sketches, each artwork reflects our artists’ individuality and creativity.

Beyond the canvas, these sessions play an important role in fostering connection, conversation, and a strong sense of community. Residents share ideas, encourage one another, and take pride in their progress and achievements.

A highlight of the year is the group’s annual art exhibition, where residents’ work is proudly displayed for the wider community to enjoy. The exhibition not only celebrates their creativity, but also helps raise funds for art supplies—ensuring the group can continue to flourish.

At Capecare, we are proud to support initiatives like this that promote wellbeing, self-expression, and meaningful engagement. The art group is a wonderful example of how creativity can bring people together and enrich everyday life.

Dunsborough Lions Club member Malcolm van Rensberg, Dr Mostyn Hamdorf, Capecare Dunsborough Residential Care Manager Linda Barry holding the bladder scanner, Dunsborough Lions Club members Jim Lane, Mick Macri and Kaye McCormick, and Capecare CEO Tim Nayton outside Capecare Dunsborough

Lions Club donation to Capecare will prevent hospital visits and potentially save lives

March 12, 2026/in Busselton, Community, Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, News

The donation of a bladder scanner by D unsborough Lions Club to Capecare has the potential to reduce hospital visits, improve health outcomes and ultimately save lives for our aged care residents.

Capecare Board Member and Dunsborough GP Dr Mostyn Hamdorf said the new scanner would allow Capecare’s nursing team to test and assess residents quickly and support an earlier diagnosis and treatment of potentially serious conditions.

“The portable bladder scanner donated to Capecare by Dunsborough Lions is a quick, safe, and non-intrusive way of differentiating between urinary obstruction and dehydration,” Dr Hamdorf said.

“For older people, particularly those who may struggle to communicate their symptoms, this technology helps take the guesswork out of diagnosis. The scan only takes a few seconds, and the results can be sent immediately to the resident’s GP so treatment can be arranged quickly.”

The bladder scanner cost approximately $6000 and will be used across Capecare’s Dunsborough and Busselton residential facilities, as well as by nurses supporting home care clients.

Dunsborough Lions Club Secretary Kaye McCormick said the Club was proud to support an organisation that played such an important role in the local community.

“Capecare is part of the fabric of the Dunsborough community, so we didn’t hesitate when we were asked if we could help,” Ms McCormick said.

“We know many people who are residents at Capecare – in fact two of our own members now live at Capecare Dunsborough.

“If residents become unwell because of a urinary issue, they often need to travel by ambulance to Busselton Hospital, which is stressful for everyone involved and places pressure on local services. With this scanner, assessments can happen quickly on site.”

Ms McCormick said the Club had long supported the facility.

“We worked hard for many years to get an aged care facility in Dunsborough, so it’s wonderful to be able to continue supporting projects like this.”

The Dunsborough Lions Club previously donated a Tovertafel interactive memory game table to Capecare shortly after the Dunsborough facility opened in 2021, along with wheelchair-friendly raised garden beds for residents. The Club also contributed financially to the facility during its early planning stages.

Learn more about Dunsborough Lions Club at dunsboroughlions.com.au

Dunsborough piano and donor Jason Cavallaro

A gift of music that lives on at Capecare

February 12, 2026/in Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, Residential

When Ishbel Casselton visited her husband Bob at Capecare Dunsborough, there came a time when his ability to communicate with her began to decline.

Determined to continue reaching him on an emotional level, Ishbel searched for another way to connect.

Bob had always loved music — especially listening to Ishbel play the piano. When Ishbel mentioned this to family friend Jason Cavallaro during a visit from Perth, the conversation took an unexpected and generous turn.

“I told Jason I would love to get a piano for Capecare so I could play for Bob,” Ishbel said. “Without missing a beat, Jason replied, ‘You can have mine.’ I almost dropped on the spot.”

Soon after, Jason’s piano was delivered and given pride of place in the dining room of the Bunker Bay wing at Capecare Dunsborough.

The impact was immediate. When Ishbel began to play, Bob’s face lit up.

“Through the piano, we were able to continue using music as a connector right up until Bob’s passing,” she said.

Bob sadly passed away in January, but the gift of music continues.

Jason’s generous donation has touched not only Ishbel and Bob, but also residents, staff, and visiting family and friends throughout the Dunsborough community.

Capecare volunteer Barton Hatherley now plays the piano during his Tuesday morning visits, and residents especially enjoy singing along to much-loved old-time favourites.

And this is no ordinary piano. Ishbel shared that the instrument originally came from the Japanese Embassy in Perth.

The Ambassador’s daughters learned to play alongside Jason’s daughters, and when the Ambassador’s family returned to Japan, the piano was gifted to Jason — who has now generously passed it on to Capecare.

“It is a beautiful piano,” Ishbel said. “We are so lucky to have it.”

Award for Clinical Coordinator Alvin Dube demonstrates Capecare values

November 25, 2025/in Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, News, Residential, Staff

At Capecare, we’re committed to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. By actively supporting nursing and care trainees through clinical placements with educational institutions across Australia, we’re investing in a future where dedicated, skilled staff provide exceptional care to our residents and strengthen our team.

We were delighted to learn last week that Capecare Clinical Coordinator Alvin Dube has been recognised with the Outstanding Preceptor Award through the Clinical Placements with Older People Program (CPOP). The award honours his excellence in mentorship and the positive impact he’s made on student nurses during their placements.

A mentor who makes a difference

The recognition came through a heartfelt nomination from a student nurse who experienced first-hand Alvin’s exceptional approach to teaching and care:

“Alvin brought a wealth of knowledge to every buddy shift I had with him and approached teaching with so much patience, clarity, and genuine care. He consistently emphasised that caring for the elderly involves not only the individual, but also their entire family – a perspective that has shaped my understanding of compassionate, person-centred care.

“From the very beginning, Alvin made me feel valued as a student. He took the time to ask, ‘What can I teach you?’ A simple question that had a lasting impact on me. It demonstrated his genuine commitment to my learning and made me feel safe asking questions while growing in confidence. Thanks to his support, my confidence has soared throughout this placement.

Alvin also made the effort to walk me through procedures step by step, never rushing, and always ensuring I understood the ‘why’ behind the ‘how.’ His dedication to both patient care and teaching is truly inspiring, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from such an amazing nurse.”

Building a legacy of care

CEO Tim Nayton said Alvin’s award reflected the values at the heart of Capecare – compassion, respect, partnership, and a commitment to person-centred care.

“His ability to inspire confidence in emerging nurses while maintaining the highest standards of resident care exemplifies the quality of our team,” Tim said.

“We are so lucky to have Alvin caring for our residents and being part of the Capecare family. Thank you, Alvin, for everything you do.”

The Clinical Placements with Older People Program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and led by the University of Canberra in partnership with Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, the University of the Sunshine Coast, Central Queensland University, Southern Cross University, and the University of Tasmania.

Clinical Coordinator Alvin Dube with Capecare CEO Tim Nayton and Alvin’s award , demonstrating Capecare values in action

Remembering our servicemen and women

November 12, 2025/in Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, News, Residential

Remembrance Day is an important occasion at Capecare when we stop to honour the courageous men and women who have served and died for our country.

Individual ceremonial events were held at each of our facilities and were well attended by residents and staff.

Special thanks to Volunteer Barton Hatherly for providing musical accompaniment, resident Bob Muirson for his recital of In Flanders Field, and resident Nikolaus Selheim for laying a wreath at the Dunsborough service.

Thanks also to Rev Graham Lawn for officiating in Busselton. He is a regular visitor to Capecare, providing our monthly Christian church service, and thanks also to resident Glenys Reynolds.

And special thanks also to our Lifestyle Coordinator Megan Snitch for organising these moving and important events and to our hospitality team for providing morning and afternoon tea.

Lest We Forget.

Smiling older lady in front of a display of paintings on easles and on the wall

Dunsborough Art Exhibition opens

July 3, 2025/in Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, News, Residential

Our Dunsborough Artists in Residence opened their third annual art exhibition earlier this week.

This talented group paints together every Wednesday morning, transforming the Capecare Dunsborough café into a creative workspace with extra tables, easels, palettes, paints, brushes and jars of water.

It is a hive of activity and positivity, sharing in each other’s creativity. Everyone works on their own project, drawing inspiration from life experiences and the things we see around us.

The group is united by a love of art, no matter the skills or abilities.

Volunteers, family and friends assist our Lifestyle Coordinator Kuvita Kumar and our artists almost every week.

Featured in this year’s exhibition is an intergenerational artwork made with the help of our little friends from GEMS Prep School Dunsborough and assistance of Debbie from Bunnings Warehouse Australia in Busselton.

“The Tree of Life” is a collaborative collage made of individually hand painted pebbles and is inspired by Gustav Klimt’s painting of the same name.

The exhibition is open until Monday 7 July, paintings are for sale and all funds raised are used to buy art materials and artist quality resources.

Capecare Dunsborough invites new residential care residents

September 24, 2024/in Dunsborough, Dunsborough Residential, News, Residential, Staff

Expressions of interest are now open for the 41 remaining beds at Capecare Dunsborough’s deluxe residential care facility, located just a short stroll to the beach and town centre.

Capecare Dunsborough is the town’s first and only residential aged care facility, opened in late 2021. Its residents enjoy premium accommodation, state-of-the-art facilities and high quality, personalised care.

Capecare CEO Tim Nayton said the rooms being released have not previously been used. “Capecare delayed opening the whole facility until we were confident it could be consistently, fully staffed with an exceptional care team.

“When Capecare Dunsborough opened two and a half years ago, we only released rooms in the two ground floor wings in a staged process,” he said.

“A stabilisation of staffing across both our Dunsborough and Busselton facilities has allowed us to move forward to release the remaining 40 rooms, which were designed with residents in mind.

“Much care was taken in the planning of bedrooms, bathrooms, living, dining and outdoor facilities to ensure the best quality of life for our Dunsborough residents.

“We hope to welcome new first-floor residents to this beautiful facility from November 2024 to early 2025 and look forward to operating at our full capacity.”

Capecare Dunsborough’s residential facility features plenty of natural light, fresh air and stimulating outlooks. Rooms are positioned around central courtyards, and many have bay windows.

Jon Farr, whose father was a resident of Capecare Dunsborough and Aunt Janet is a current resident, said he and his family’s experience with the facility had been nothing but positive.

“My Aunt moved into Capecare in June 2022 to be closer to Dad who lived in Busselton. After getting to know the facility my dad said he thought he might need to go into residential care, and when a room came up he also moved into Capecare in Dunsborough. About a year later another of my aunties moved in, so it was a family affair!”

“From the time we first connected with Capecare through to ongoing relationships with the whole team, the main thing is that they really make you feel welcome. And nothing ever seems to be too difficult,” he said.

“When my father passed away, we witnessed a very caring team of people who had cared for my dad, were caring for my aunties, and cared for us as a family as well.”

Capecare Dunsborough comprises a premium 82-bed residential care facility for people with high physical needs in a dementia-enabling environment, respite care, lifestyle and allied health services (occupational therapy, podiatry and physiotherapy), a cinema room, hairdresser, café and landscaped gardens with BBQ area.

The complex also features 21 independent living apartments and the new HQ for the Dunsborough Country Women’s Association (CWA).

To find out more about Capecare Dunsborough visit our Dunsborough residential page . To enquire about the rooms release and receive an information kit, contact the Capecare admissions team on 08 9750 2000 or email dunsadmissions@capecare.com.au.

Building confidence and compassion in palliative care