CatholicCare Sydney staff came together at Waterview in Bicentennial Park for the organisation’s annual celebration day, an event dedicated to recognising the people and programs that strengthen children, families, and communities across Greater Sydney.
With staff arriving in bright CatholicCare colours, the venue was transformed into a vibrant display of pride and unity.
Following a Welcome to Country from ‘Uncle’ Michael West and prayer from CatholicCare Sydney’s chaplaincy manager Deacon Justin Faehrmann, chair of the board John Leotta opened the event with a message of gratitude, emphasising that CatholicCare’s unique impact is driven not only by what the organisation delivers, but by the deeper purpose behind its work.
Acting chief executive officer Kate Dover reflected on a year defined by commitment, resilience, and meaningful outcomes across more than 60 programs.
She thanked teams for their dedication, particularly those who continued running essential services during the event and shared her optimism for 2026 as CatholicCare advances its refreshed organisational strategy.
Staff also enjoyed a video highlights reel showcasing major achievements from the past year. The formal program concluded with an engaging keynote from motivational speaker Amanda Gore, who offered an energising perspective on the power of joy and the small actions that build connection and wellbeing.
A key feature of the day was the CatholicCare Awards, honouring 13 exceptional individuals and teams who exemplify the organisation’s values.
Awards recognised excellence in collaboration, compassion, empowerment, inclusion, courage, leadership, and lifetime contribution.
Leaders and colleagues celebrated outstanding contributions ranging from cross-sector partnerships and impactful clinical practice to inclusive chaplaincy, innovative service design, and decades of transformational leadership.
The event’s highest honours, the Monsignor John Usher Leadership Award and the Founder’s Award for Lifetime Achievement, highlighted the profound and lasting influence of leaders who have shaped CatholicCare’s culture and services over many years.
The recipient of the first award was Shannon Rizzo from Children & Family Services. The Lifetime Achievement award was presented to two worthy recipients – Jenny Kadwell and Sharron Matayalo, who have both dedicated decades of service to Catholic Care Sydney and continue to leave a strong legacy and lasting impact on the Agency.
CatholicCare Sydney’s celebration day reinforced the organisation’s enduring commitment to supporting vulnerable people through purpose-driven, high-quality care and the remarkable individuals who make it possible.
