How Mary Andrews residential aged care fosters friendship, connection and care

Carers residents can rely on

At Mary Andrews, feeling at home is as much about the people as it is the place.  Residents often say what they value most is the kindness and dedication of the staff, who know each resident well and treat them like family. That trust and sense of connection is part of the onging support, and it’s what makes residents feel supported in every way.

Residents share how much this means. Maria remembers how on the day she arrived, staff sat and talked with her until she felt at ease, and now she counts many of them as friends. Warren says his quality of life has improved since moving into Mary Andrews, explaining, “I’ve got nothing to worry about. For many staff, the best part of the job are the relationships they build with residents. Jackie, who has worked at Mary Andrews for 29 years, says every day feels rewarding because of the bonds she has built. She explains that laughter and friendship are part of her approach, and she often aims to feel more like a friend than a carer. Raye, who has been with the home for 14 years, calls it “small, but a big family,” and says the best part of her role is seeing residents happy and comfortable.

Kerry, the Chaplain, puts it simply: “The staff are really committed to providing the best care... .some of our staff have been here ten years plus, so there’s that long-term connection.” That continuity helps to create deep trust, giving residents and their families peace of mind that the care here is personal, consistent and full of heart.

The joy of finding new friends

At Mary Andrews, the friendships residents make is what makes it feel like home With just 50 people, it’s easy to get to know one another and build meaningful connections.

Christina says, “Since I moved here, I’ve met lots of friends… everybody respects each other. The residents are like family.” Warren noticed the same thing when he and his wife moved in. It took only a few days for it to feel like home for both of them. “That’s why we became permanent residents,” he explains.

“I’ve made a lot of friends here, and it’s done a lot for me. When we come down for dinner, we say hello to everyone and call them by their names now,” Warren adds.

Respecting choice in everyday care

Feeling supported emotionally and socially means having your voice heard and choices respected. Staff work closely with residents to make sure activities reflect what people want. “Our activities are chosen by residents… we always consult them,” says Lifestyle Carer Raye. One of the popular activities at Mary Andrews is Walk and Talk. Staff and residents walk around the garden paths, water the plants and then sit in the sun and share morning tea.

Outings are another way residents’ needs are taken care of, especially when they’re given the chance to help choose the activity and location. Scenic bus tours run twice a month, alongside regular shopping and lunch trips. “Residents look forward to outings and often help choose where to go, like Oatley Park, La Perouse, Captain Cook’s Landing Place, St George, and Taren Point Bowling Club,” says Raye.

It’s not only the everyday care that feels personal at Mary Andrews, but also the significant days, too. Staff make sure birthdays are celebrated, and occasions like Mother’s Day feel special. It’s another way Mary Andrews cares for residents holistically, making sure people feel seen and valued each and every day.

Care that honours the whole person

Spiritual support is also an important part of life at Mary Andrews, guided by Kerry, the Chaplain. While chapel services and Bible studies run each week, much of Kerry’s role is simply about being there to listen.

“People don’t always want answers; they want someone who will listen and who they can trust,” she explains. That support is available to everyone, no matter their background or beliefs. Some residents enjoy prayer and Bible reading, while others value a quiet chat, a friendly visit, or simply knowing someone is there if they need it.

Every new resident receives a visit from Kerry, which often helps them feel settled more quickly. “Over time, they come out of their rooms, start meeting others, and feel more at home,” she says. It’s this personal and gentle approach that sets the tone for the whole home, which Kerry describes as “comfortable, caring, and [filled with] good relationships.”

Peace of mind for families

There is a special peace of mind for families that comes from knowing a loved one is at Mary Andrews, surrounded by genuine care and companionship. Christina laughs when she talks about her sons: “My boys check on me nearly every day. They ask me if I’m happy. They are happy because they know I am happy here.”

Maria’s niece feels the same. A regular visitor, she told Maria that if she were old enough, she’d move in herself. “She loves this place,” Maria says, adding that her family are glad to know she has the right support each day.

Families also appreciate how staff keep them involved and informed.  Jackie explains that fostering relationships with the families “is very important for understanding how to deliver the best care.”. Over the years, she’s received countless thank you cards and letters from families, a reminder of how much that support means.

The open communication means families can relax, knowing their loved one is cared for and surrounded by people who treat them like family.

The Mary Andrews difference

Mary Andrews is a small, close-knit residential aged care home where the experiences of residents, families, and staff reflect the depth of care found within its walls. From the friendships that brighten each day, to staff who treat residents with respect and kindness, to the emotional and spiritual support that helps people feel understood, life here is loving and connected. As Christina put it, “I’m very happy here. Very, very happy.”

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Residential aged care South Hurstville FAQs

Where is Mary Andrews located?

Mary Andrews is conveniently located in South Hurstville near shops and the Hurstville train station.

What are the rooms like at Mary Andrews?

Each resident has their own private room with an ensuite. It means you’ve got your own space while still being part of a loving community.

Can family and friends visit often?

Absolutely. Families are encouraged to come by as often as they like, there are no visiting hours.
 
What shared spaces can residents use?

There are a variety of areas both inside and outside where residents can spend their time.  They can relax in a lounge area or sit outside, read in the library, catch up with friends in the central dining area or go for a walk through the landscaped gardens.

What kind of support is there?

Care is available around the clock. That includes registered nurses on site 24/7, physiotherapy, memory support, respite, and palliative care. Everyday needs are covered too, with laundry services and a hair salon on site.

How do residents get out and about?

There are frequent bus outings which are decided by the residents to ensure they get to visit places that are important to them.

How do I arrange a tour of Mary Andrews residential aged care?

You can call Anglicare on 1300 111 278 or visit anglicare.org.au/mary-andrews to book a tour. The team will show you around, answer your questions and help you get a feel for the home.