A lifelong carer supporting carers
Meet Tracy, supporting mental health carers in Bundaberg
When Tracy sits down with a carer for the first time, she often asks a simple question, “And how are you going?”There’s usually a pause.
“Most carers start by telling me all about the person they’re supporting,” Tracy says. “Then I ask about them. Sometimes that’s the first time anyone has.”
For some, the question brings tears. For others, it takes a moment to even find the words.
Tracy is Arafmi’s Carer Support Facilitator in Bundaberg and has been in the role since August 2025. She’s worked in the local mental health sector for eight years, building strong community connections along the way. In a regional area where trust matters, that history counts.
But it’s not just professional experience Tracy brings to the role. “I’ve been a carer most of my life,” she says.
Tracy grew up as a young carer and today continues caring for her adult children and her partner. That lived experience shapes the way she shows up for others.
“I understand what it’s like when everything is about the person you’re supporting,” she says. “Sometimes carers aren’t even in touch with their own needs anymore. It’s survival mode.”
In Bundaberg, that support is deeply needed. The region has a high number of carers, an ageing population and many families who’ve moved for lifestyle or affordability over the years. While the beaches and bushland make it a beautiful place to live, services haven’t always kept up with demand.
That’s where Tracy comes in.
Through one on one conversations, peer support groups and coaching, she walks alongside carers as they figure out what they need, sometimes for the first time in a long time.
What does she love most about the role?
“Seeing that shift,” she says. “When carers finally give themselves permission to put themselves first, even just a little. They’re the ones doing the hard work. I’m just supporting them.”
She’s big on reminding carers that there’s no one size fits all solution. “We’re all different. It’s about finding what works for you. And if something doesn’t work, we try something else.”
Outside of work, Tracy makes a point of practising what she encourages others to do, connecting with friends, gardening, going to the gym, singing in a choir and spending time with her dogs and partner. “I try to practise what I preach,” she laughs. “It’s not always perfect. But I try.”
If you’re in Bundaberg and no one has asked how you’re going lately, Tracy would love to. You can connect with her through the Wellways Carer Gateway Hub or at The Nest in Bundaberg during business hours, or arrange a time and place that works for you.
Because your wellbeing matters too.
