Decades of dedication: Gabby Burke’s story

After more than 30 years in support work, including 18 years with Community Based Support (CBS), Gabby Burke has recently retired, leaving behind a career defined by care, patience and long-standing relationships.

For Gabby, the decision to work in the sector was simple. “I’m a people person,” she says. “I’ve always enjoyed working with people.” Her career began at Cosmos, now known as Mosaic, and from there she built a life dedicated to supporting others to live with dignity, confidence and choice.

Some of Gabby’s earliest experiences in support work remain among the most significant. She worked with people who were part of the final group moved out of Willow Court, the former mental asylum in New Norfolk. Remarkably, many of those same individuals are still part of her life today. “I’m still working with the same people 30 years later,” she says. The continuity of those relationships speaks to the trust and connection Gabby has built over decades.

When asked what clients have taught her, Gabby does not hesitate. “To be patient.” It is a quality that has shaped both her professional life and her personal approach to care. Over the years, patience has underpinned her ability to support people through challenges, changes and everyday moments that matter.

For Gabby, there was never just one defining moment that summed up why she chose this work. Instead, it was the accumulation of everyday experiences. “Every moment,” she says. “Seeing that I can make a difference and give people confidence.” Helping someone feel capable, supported and valued was a constant source of motivation.

Along the way, Gabby developed many skills she did not expect when she first started. From administering medication to applying leg braces and managing complex physical support needs, her role evolved alongside the people she supported. These practical skills were matched by emotional insight, adaptability and empathy. These qualities are hard to teach but essential in support work.

Gabby has also witnessed significant change across the sector and in the community. “Society has changed a lot too, for the better.” she reflects. Increased awareness, improved language and stronger emphasis on rights and inclusion have helped shape a more respectful and person-centred environment.

Her colleagues have long recognised Gabby’s dedication. Regina Favaloro from HR says, “A valued and long-standing member of the CBS team, Gabby has been a part of changes and improvements to the way CBS delivers our care. Her commitment to giving our clients a real quality of life at home is remarkable. She embodies that professionalism and quality needed to be a carer.”

What kept her motivated through long days and challenging moments was simple: bringing people joy. “Seeing them happy,” she says, was always enough. That focus on wellbeing, not just support tasks, has been a hallmark of her career.

As Gabby steps into retirement, her caring role continues. She is now focusing on looking after her mum, who is unwell. While her professional chapter with CBS has come to a close, the values that guided her work remain firmly part of who she is.

Gabby’s legacy is not found in titles or years of service alone, but in the lives she has walked alongside, patiently, consistently and with genuine care.

CBS extends our heartfelt gratitude to Gabby and wishes her and her family well as she steps into retirement.