The Power of Connection in Comlink Australia’s Telefriends Program
In a world where digital communication often dominates, the value of human connection remains as vital as ever, especially for seniors living in residential aged care facilities. At Comlink Australia, we understand the importance of combating loneliness and fostering meaningful relationships, which is why we’re proud to introduce our Telefriends Program.
Meet Ray, an inspiring 83-year-old resident of Estia Health Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast and a new volunteer with Comlink Australia. Ray’s journey with volunteering spans decades, from his time with a local Community Radio station to his involvement with the State Emergency Service. For Ray, community engagement isn’t just a pastime—it’s an integral part of his identity.
Despite his active involvement in various volunteer roles, Ray found himself grappling with loneliness while living in residential aged care. Surrounded by individuals with dementia, Ray yearned for deeper connections and meaningful conversations that resonated with his own experiences and interests. Confined to his room, mobility became a challenge, limiting his ability to engage with the outside world.
It was during this time of searching for stimulation and connection that Ray discovered Comlink Australia. Drawn to the Telefriends Program, Ray saw an opportunity to not only combat his own feelings of loneliness but also to be a beacon of companionship for others facing similar challenges.
Ray’s transition to becoming a Telefriend was seamless, driven by his innate passion for communication and empathy for those experiencing loneliness. Embracing the phone-based platform, Ray found joy in conversing with different individuals, sharing stories, and lending a listening ear. Through his interactions, Ray discovered a newfound sense of purpose and fulfillment, transforming his once-lonely days into ones filled with meaningful connections.
Reflecting on his experience, Ray shares, “A phone-based opportunity is perfect for me. I love to be able to talk to different people, and I really feel I am making a difference! I’ve gone from having that lonely feeling myself to a near full diary these days!”
Ray’s story embodies the transformative power of human connection and the profound impact it can have on one’s well-being, regardless of age or circumstance. Through the Telefriends Program, Comlink Australia is bridging the gap between seniors and meaningful companionship, enriching lives, and fostering a sense of belonging.
Join us at Comlink Australia in our mission to combat loneliness and create a world where every individual feels valued and connected. Together, we can make a difference—one conversation at a time.
Comlink Australia acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, to Elders past, present, and emerging.
“I am inspired to pioneer a new way forward, challenging the way we think about aged care, and inviting you to reimagine a world class system for ageing in place. To lead with grace, creating environments where true participation can co-author our new story together”
Deborah is a dynamic leader driven by a passion for making a meaningful impact in people’s lives. With extensive experience in operations management, business transformations, and strategic programs, she continuously achieves success. Deborah’s strategic insight enhances workplace productivity and fosters exceptional quality of life outcomes for clients.
With over a decade of leadership in community aged care services, Deborah’s journey began with a genuine desire to forge meaningful connections with elderly Australians. As a compassionate advocate, she believes in dignified aging, ensuring access to the highest standard of care for every individual. Deborah envisions a future where older Australians are empowered, independent, and connected, living their best lives to the fullest.
“I am motivated most by ensuring a thriving Comlink Australia exists sustainably for many years to come. I greatly appreciate the importance of independence, personal dignity and choice as we age, and believe the delivery of Comlink Australia’s compassionate, reliable and effective care and transport services to our elderly community is a necessity”
Michael is an accomplished Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Services Manager with a proven track record in the hospital, health, and aged care sectors. With years of hands-on experience, Michael has honed his expertise, becoming a valuable asset to Comlink Australia.
As our CFO, Michael leverages his proficiency in data modelling and business intelligence to drive organisational growth and efficiency. His keen eye for budgeting ensures optimal resource allocation, leading to improved financial performance.
Armed with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) (Hons) in Finance and Accounting from The University of Salford, Michael navigates complex financial landscapes adeptly. His risk management skills safeguard the organisation, while his ICT proficiency ensures seamless technology integration for operational productivity. Michael’s commitment to supporting his team and collaborating with stakeholders ensures regulatory compliance and secures funding for future growth.
“I am motivated by knowing people feel safe. With respect to the aged care sector, this safety aspect aligns with the power that community-connection provides elderly people. I am proud that Comlink Australia’s services discourage isolation and loneliness, instead promoting opportunities for elderly members of our community to remain living their best lives as independently as possible.”
Dirk Britz, our Chief Operating Officer at Comlink Australia, is a seasoned leader renowned for his achievements in the health, wellness, and fitness sectors. Passionate about fostering high-performing teams and driving innovation, Dirk is dedicated to empowering individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Throughout his career, he has championed positive change, guiding professionals to reach their full potential and creating dynamic, motivated teams.
With a solid academic background including a BA in Human Movement Science and Business Management from the University of the Free State, Dirk combines his expertise in operations management with a deep understanding of human potential. His qualifications from the Australian Institute of Company Directors and Harvard Business School further enrich his strategic approach. Dirk’s commitment to Comlink Australia’s vision of supporting clients to live and age well aligns perfectly with his belief in the importance of health and wellness across all generations.
As COO, Dirk’s compassionate leadership drives our organisation’s mission forward, ensuring we achieve our goals while making a positive impact in our clients’ lives and communities.
“I believe that the measure of the success of a society is how well it ages, how it supports and cares for people as they age. I also believe that this is all about culture, and that Australia needs to reimagine what it means to ages in our homes and in our communities. I am proud to be leading this conversation at Comlink Australia.”
Liam, our CEO and Managing Director at Comlink Australia, is deeply committed to driving meaningful social change. He envisions a future where Australians live and age with dignity and trust, reimagining traditional approaches. Liam’s approachability is evident as he actively engages with clients, families, staff, and volunteers, gathering feedback and fostering a culture of inclusivity.
With a doctorate in sociology, Liam’s expertise in futures thinking and social change has earned him recognition as a sought-after speaker for both corporate and community audiences. He shares his insights through publications and serves as a guest researcher at Radboud University in the Netherlands, a lecturer at the University of the Sunshine Coast, and a Senior Fellow with the Centre for Postnormal Policy and Futures Studies in London. Liam’s personable leadership style and dedication to collaborative decision-making make him a trusted advocate for positive change within our organization and beyond.
“I am passionate about my community and giving back; I love being involved with this organisation whose mission it is to help people to age well in their own homes and communities.”
Sharee Webster, Manager of Holmans in Maroochydore since April 2007, is a Chartered Accountant with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Queensland. She holds certifications as a Chartered Tax Adviser from the Taxation Institute of Australia and is a Registered Tax Agent.
In July 2016, Sharee obtained her Diploma of Financial Planning, becoming a licensed Financial Adviser. Specialising in business structures, taxation advice, and Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs), Sharee provides strategic tax guidance to private clients, family businesses, and corporate entities.
Formerly Treasurer of the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network for six years, she also served on the Board of Directors of the Buderim Community Enterprises Limited, trading as the Buderim Community Bank ® Branch of Bendigo Bank, for six years. Sharee is deeply embedded in the local community and brings a wealth of experience to her role.
“I am passionate about embracing a holistic approach to healthy ageing where movement, good nutrition and a sense of community are recognised as key elements to ageing well. We aim to pioneer a paradigm shift in our industry, redefining the standards of healthy ageing.”
As our new Chair of the Board, Elaine Jobson strategically positions Comlink Australia at the forefront of the healthy ageing sector. With extensive experience in health and fitness, including leading the management buyout of Jetts Fitness, Ms. Jobson brings invaluable expertise to this role.
As we redirect our focus towards becoming an industry leader, Ms. Jobson’s global experience in fostering great cultures and cultivating exceptional leaders will be instrumental in driving ongoing success. Under her leadership, we aim to mitigate the impact of age-related illnesses and create a supportive environment for seniors, promoting physical, mental, and social health.
Elaine’s vision includes a holistic approach to healthy ageing, emphasising exercise, nutrition, and community engagement. With her guidance, we are set to revolutionise healthy ageing, improving the well-being and quality of life for older Australians.
“I’m driven by being involved in effecting positive and meaningful change to people’s lives. I strive to make a positive difference in my community, our country and hopefully one day throughout the world by supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged people and communities.”
Tim is passionate about effecting positive change in people’s lives, from the local to the global level. With expertise in corporate governance for non-profits, he advises senior management and boards, while also supporting the growth of commercial enterprises. Tim’s experience spans large-scale project management, small business development, and providing governance advice to various organisations.
As the Managing Director of a Queensland-based consulting firm, he balances his professional responsibilities with community involvement. Tim serves as an Executive Director for Five Bridges Ltd, a not-for-profit Indigenous organisation, and has held leadership roles in professional and community associations. A member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Institute of Managers and Leaders, Tim holds a Masters in Commercial Law, a Bachelor of Business, and a Diploma of Project Management.