Support Team
Steve Bruechert
CEO
Steve joined John Curtin Aged Care in August 2021 after working on the board since 2017. Steve is a multi-skilled and experienced manager, leader, project manager, consultant and facilitator in leadership, management, strategic planning, business planning, team building, change management, quality, human resources, learning and development in community services, aged care, disability and health. Steve brings extensive experience in organisational management, business management as well as a clinical background in disability, aged care and psychogeriatric nursing. As CEO, Steve is responsible for all day-to-day operations of the facility, accreditation, personnel management and working alongside the Board in planning future directions and developments.
Cleo Chisaka
Clinical Manager
Mr. Cleo Chisaka is a dedicated healthcare professional currently serving as the Clinical Manager at John Curtin Residential Aged Care, a position he has held since September 12, 2022, after moving to Australia with his wife and children. With a robust background in aged care, Cleo brings a wealth of experience to his role, having previously worked in New Zealand as the Care Coordinator for a 130-bed residential aged care home. His leadership skills were further honed during three years as a Registered Nurse in charge of a 53-bed facility, which included a dedicated dementia unit.
Cleo’s expertise encompasses a comprehensive range of responsibilities, including overseeing clinical staff, managing admissions and rostering, developing care plans and assessments, conducting audits, and preparing monthly reports. He is committed to education, quality improvement, and addressing complaints, while also serving as a vital liaison for families and conducting staff appraisals.
His extensive understanding of Aged Care Standards and funding models, particularly through the Aged Care Assessment and Accreditation Framework (ANACC), is complemented by his additional qualifications in the Management of Dementia. Prior to his roles in aged care, Cleo held a senior registered nurse position at Christchurch Hospital in New Zealand from 2009 to 2017, where he developed a solid foundation in clinical practice and patient care.
Cleo is multilingual, speaking both English and Shona, having gained his qualifications in his home country of Zimbabwe. His educational background includes a General Nurse qualification (1999-2000) and a Certificate in General Nursing (1992-1994) from Zimbabwe, along with several post-registration courses, including a Certificate in Nursing Management of Dementia, Depression, and Delirium (2006, CPIT-New Zealand) and the InterRai assessor course (2018).
With a passion for improving the lives of older adults, Cleo continues to make significant contributions to the field of aged care through his leadership and commitment to excellence.
Simon Coope
Finance Manager
Mr. Simon Coope is a Chartered Accountant and a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. He joined John Curtin Aged Care in June 2024, bringing with him over 20 years of experience in financial management and accounting, specifically focused within the not-for-profit (NFP) and community sectors over the past 15 years.
Simon excels in evaluating organizational needs and distilling complex data into clear, actionable insights. His analytical thinking and problem-solving skills enable him to deliver practical, detailed, and innovative solutions to challenging financial issues. Known for his proactive and strategically focused approach, Simon has extensive experience in providing timely, accurate, and high-level support to stakeholders, ensuring their needs are met with precision and care.
At John Curtin Aged Care, Simon’s expertise plays a crucial role in enhancing financial sustainability and operational efficiency, allowing the organization to focus on its mission of delivering exceptional care to its residents
Karen Farrington
Administration Manager
With a diverse and dynamic career spanning over three decades, Karen Farrington brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the aged care and community services sector. Karen’s professional journey began in the finance industry as a Settlements Officer with La Trobe Home Loans in Victoria. After marrying and moving to the La Trobe Valley, she spent 11 years as the owner-operator of a dairy farm, managing all aspects of farm operations and honing her skills in business management and problem-solving.
In 2008, Karen transitioned into the hospitality and tourism industry, where she worked for 17 years as the Front Office Receptionist at Kyneton Bushland Resort. Her role in guest relations and operations management gave her valuable insight into customer service and operations, which she later applied in her career in aged care.
In 2017, Karen moved to Ballarat, where she shifted her focus to aged care. Starting in food services and cleaning, Karen quickly advanced into a Lifestyle Coordinator position at Royal Freemasons, where she spent three years providing enrichment and support for residents. During this period, Karen also completed her Certificate IV in Ageing Support and Leisure and Health, gaining a well-rounded and in-depth understanding of the aged care sector.
In December 2020, Karen joined John Curtin Aged Care as the Admin & Support Coordinator, where she provided integral support across various departments, including finance, lifestyle, and administration. Her attention to detail, ability to work collaboratively, and proactive approach led her to be promoted to the role of Administration Manager, where she managed the day-to-day operations and supported both staff and management.
Karen’s passion for community service and commitment to professional development led her to pursue a traineeship in 2023, where she began studying for an Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management. This qualification, completed in September 2024, has equipped Karen with advanced knowledge of the legalities and regulations surrounding aged care and community services. Today, she is proud to support the CEO and governance members of the Board at John Curtin Aged Care, contributing her extensive skills and knowledge to ensure the highest standards of care and service.
With a strong foundation in management, a deep understanding of aged care, and a passion for supporting the community, Karen continues to make a positive impact in the sector and is dedicated to the well-being of both staff and residents.
Ross Waddington
Organisational Development Manager
Coming from a background of caring for aging family members in both their and his family homes, Ross was drawn to a career in health and human services sector now exceeding 50 years working throughout Australia in acute, sub-acute, mental health, community health, primary mental health, plus localised and national aged care services.
Specialist areas of interest saw Ross gain and apply knowledge and experience in health services management ranging in size from small rural through to national corporate organisations including Clinical Education program evaluation, health planning and architecture, facilities design, and project management.
Guided by a system wide perspective, Ross’ formal and ongoing education over a 40-year period provided detailed understanding of support services, business management, health economics, and healthcare quality systems culminating with a Master of Health Administration though research.
Application of Ross’ skills and experiences have included roles in operational management, industrial relations, education, corporate governance, community engagement and executive management.
Throughout his career, Ross has applied change management techniques fundamental to meeting and maintaining improved care within health, human and aged care services and readily shares with his colleagues his many experiences of aged care, but none more so than those stemming from his early childhood experiences.
Harrison Lockett
Chef Manager
Harrison Lockett is a passionate chef who brings a taste of Melbourne’s vibrant culinary scene to Ballarat. Having grown up on Lygon Street in the heart of Carlton’s bustling restaurant district, Harrison developed a deep love for cooking from an early age. Four years ago, he brought his expertise and passion for food to Ballarat, where he continues to delight customers with his delicious creations. With a focus on making his clients happy, Harrison’s dedication to his craft shines through in every dish he prepares.
Mahi Christoforou
Environmental Services Manager
