Celebrated on Friday, August 7, the theme for this year's Aged Care Employee Day is #ThanksforCaring, recognising each and every team member involved in caring for the 1.3 million older Australians receiving home care or residential care services.

"It's an important day because all the staff go above and beyond, trying their best to do what they can," Whiddon Moree deputy director of care Liviya Wilson said.

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To celebrate the day, Whiddon Moree treated staff to morning tea, a barbecue lunch and afternoon tea, as well as giving each a small gift.

Residents and staff also wrote messages of thank you to staff members, which will be put up in the facility for all to see.

Whiddon CEO Chris Mamarelis said this year has been a particularly challenging one, so it is more important than ever that we shine a light on the amazing people who have chosen aged care as a career.

"Aged care employees are caring heroes who go above and beyond each and every day to positively impact the lives of senior Australians," he said.

"I am incredibly grateful when I see the way our employees have continued to provide exceptional care and show such passion for making a difference throughout this pandemic.

"These aged care heroes continue to go above and beyond, despite their own personal challenges and uncertainty they may be facing.

"They offer comfort, support and love, and create smiles on the faces of the wonderful people that we are privileged to care for. They are doing an incredible job in helping to keep residents safe, well, connected and engaged during these challenging times.

"Aged Care Employee Day pays tribute to the valuable work of everyone working in aged care, regardless of their role.

"It is an official day created just for them, to celebrate all they do, and provide an opportunity for the community to say thank you. We are very proud to have brought this day to life a few years ago and to see it celebrated so widely now."