At the heart of Caringa’s approach is an unwavering commitment to person centered and co-designed supports that honours the unique needs and aspirations of each community member. Caringa was created BY the community, FOR the community and has been in operation for 71 years.
Born from local hearts, Caringa lights up the Clarence Valley and Coffs Coast with personalised support that celebrates every individual’s potential. Our vibrant spark isn’t just a logo—it’s a promise of inclusive, co-designed care that honours your choices and independence. From tailored services to community connections, we’re igniting a brighter future for all. Ready to experience ‘A Complete Life’? join us to meet the Caringa community today..
Meet the Caringa Community
While these faces represent our Executive and Senior Leadership team, they’re just a glimpse of the vibrant Caringa community that makes our mission possible. Behind every strategic decision and organisational achievement stands our remarkable team of over 300 dedicated Caringa community members who bring our vision to life every day across the Northern Rivers region.
From our leadership to our frontline support workers, each member of the Caringa family contributes their unique perspective, skills, and passion to our shared purpose. Together, we’re more than just a workforce—we’re a diverse community of advocates, caregivers, and changemakers who understand that true inclusion happens through collective effort.
Every team member, regardless of their role, is essential to our mission of breaking down barriers and empowering individuals to live their fullest lives. Whether in our homes, neighbourhoods, workplaces, or community spaces, our people demonstrate that working in disability and community services isn’t simply a career choice—it’s a commitment to creating lasting, positive change in our community.
Leon Ankersmit
Chief Executive Officer
Expect the unexpected from the Caringa Community..
Join us at Leon’s Desk each month online here.
Join the conversation with Caringa, or chat with Leon online;
Community Engagement:
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Glen McClymont
Business & Enterprise Development Manager
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Communications, Community Engagement & Marketing Officer
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Executive Assistant
Corporate Services:
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Ruby Grieves
Quality Systems Manager
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People and Culture Manager
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Sue Pearce
Finance Coordinator
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People and Culture Officer
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Workforce Planning Coordinator
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Safety Officer
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Taylan Ellis
Return To Work, People and Culture Coordinator
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Mel Gaddes
Finance Assistant
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Administration Support Rosters
Allied Health:
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Behaviour Support Practitioner; Clinical Lead & Psychologist
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Clinical Educator/Coordinator; B.Nurs, RN
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Allied Health Administrative Assistant
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Clinical Educator/Coordinator (RN)
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Senior Occupational Therapist
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Behaviour Support Practitioner
Plan Management:
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Plan Manager
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Plan Manager (Acting)
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Plan Manager
Client Services:
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Client Services Manager
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Client Services Coordinator
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Lisa Salter
Systems & Compliance Officer
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Team Leader
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Team Leader
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Team Leader
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Team Leader
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Team Leader
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Team Leader; Employment Outcomes
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Team Leader
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Team Leader (Acting)
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Team Leader (Acting)
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Team Leader, Custom Employment Pathways
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Activity Planner, Castle Hub Community
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disaruptor; talent.ed Custom Employment Pathways
Products + Services:
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Team Leader; Caringa Employment
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Team Leader, Assets and Technical Services
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Customer Service Officer, Orara Street
Caringa’s staff undertake a rigorous recruitment and worker screening process.
All Caringa employees and Directors are required to hold a Services NSW Working with Children Check and NDIS Worker Check before delivering services. Caringa Team Members receive practical, skills-based induction and training; including Mental Health First Aid and PART™ Training (Predict, Assess and Respond To Aggressive/Challenging Behaviours Training).