At Anglicare, we are proud to be home to many passionate and dedicated individuals who have devoted years—sometimes decades—of their lives to serving others. This month, we celebrate two remarkable team members from the Disability Day Centre in Goulburn whose stories reflect the heart and soul of our organisation.
Allison Jones – 27 Years of Service and Still Smiling
Allison’s journey with Anglicare began 27 years ago in finance, handling accounts payable. From there, she transitioned to administration for our Early Learning Services, before acting as an Executive Assistant. Eventually, she found her calling in Disability Services, where she has been for the past 4–5 years.
“The bonus in working in disability is the clients,” Allison shares. “They bring a smile to your face every single day.” Known for her playful spirit, she enjoys dancing, singing karaoke, and sharing a joke with the participants—a testament to the warm and joyful relationships she’s built.
Reflecting on her early days, Allison recalls a time when Anglicare was a smaller organisation based mainly in Goulburn. “It’s grown and grown,” she says, acknowledging the benefits of expansion while missing the camaraderie of knowing everyone by name. She hopes to revive the tradition of regular morning teas at the Cowper Street offices to rekindle that sense of community.
One of her favourite outings is when the Goulburn team and the team from Anglicare’s Canberra-based Disability Day Centre meet up for lunch and engage in peer support activities. She enjoys watching the connections being built between participants at both centres.
Kerry Jackson – Creative Spirit with a Heart for Care
With more than 17 years of service to Anglicare, Kerry has brought creativity, compassion, and a wealth of experience to her roles—from foster care to disability services, and even teaching “Communication in Policing” at the Police Academy in Goulburn.
Her background is rich with experience in adult education, graphic design, and creative arts—all of which she brings into her current role at the Goulburn Day Centre.
Now retired from full-time work, she dedicates her Wednesdays to craft day, where she helps design inclusive, engaging projects for participants. “I guess I’m still like a kid really,” she laughs. “I love to play with all the trappings of art and craft stuff and enjoy watching everyone achieve satisfaction from their creations.”
Her passion for creativity is matched by her commitment to making activities accessible and enjoyable for all. “Finding activities that all can participate in with some challenges included” is part of the fun—and the reward.
Though the disability sector posed challenges early on, she reflects with pride: “I rose to the occasion and find myself open to learn and accommodate most requirements of Anglicare, its clients, staff and families.” Over the years, Kerry has witnessed the organisation grow and thrive, and she feels genuinely valued and supported.
Her story is also one of lifelong learning and adaptability, from her early days as a ticket writer and window dresser to teaching at TAFE and managing the Big Merino souvenir shop. Today, she balances her Anglicare work with caring for her grandchildren—ages 9, 7, and 2—proving that her nurturing spirit extends far beyond the workplace.
We are incredibly honoured to have Allison and Kerry as part of the Goulburn Disability Team. Their compassion, dedication and deep commitment to community have made a lasting impact on the lives of those they serve—and on Anglicare as a whole.
Visit our Disability Services page to learn more about our Day Centres, Supported Independent Living Houses, NDIS plan management and In-Home Care.
