Five RFBI finalists recognised in 2026 Ageing Australia You are ACE! Awards

• RFBI News

Sonia Lim 30 Jul 2026

RFBI is proud to announce that five outstanding individuals and teams have been named finalists in the 2026 Ageing Australia You are ACE! Awards, recognising excellence, innovation, dedication and service across the aged care sector.

The RFBI finalists are:

• Julie Southern, Catering Supervisor – RFBI Lake Haven Masonic Village (Individual – Innovation Category)
• Hilary Kite, Volunteer – RFBI Bellingen Masonic Village (Individual – Volunteer Category)
• Kevin Jones, Volunteer – RFBI Glen Innes Masonic Village (Individual – Volunteer Category)
• Leonie Robinson, Volunteer – RFBI Basin View Masonic Village (Individual – Volunteer Category)
• RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village Maintenance Team (Team – Innovation Category)

These finalists reflect the exceptional people and teams who help make RFBI villages welcoming, supportive and enriching places to live. Their dedication, compassion and commitment to continuous improvement make a meaningful difference to the lives of our residents every day.

Innovation Through Choice and Dignity

Julie Southern, Catering Supervisor at RFBI Lake Haven Masonic Village, has been recognised for her leadership in transforming the dining experience for residents. Julie played a key role in implementing an innovative food service model that increased resident choice while ensuring meals were delivered efficiently and at the right temperature, regardless of where residents chose to dine.

Her leadership helped guide the catering team through significant change, embedding new ways of working that enhanced both the resident and staff experience. The project has since received international recognition, highlighting the impact of Julie’s commitment to innovation, resident dignity and continuous improvement.

Volunteers Making a Difference

Three dedicated RFBI volunteers have also been recognised for the extraordinary contributions they make within their village communities.

At RFBI Bellingen Masonic Village, Hilary Kite has been recognised for the warmth, compassion and meaningful friendships she brings to residents. After continuing to volunteer following the passing of the resident she originally supported, Hilary has remained a valued part of the village community, helping foster connection and reduce social isolation.

At RFBI Glen Innes Masonic Village, Kevin Jones has been recognised for his generosity, practical support and companionship. Whether driving the village bus, transporting residents to appointments, cooking the resident BBQ or assisting with maintenance, Kevin’s willingness to help wherever needed has made him an integral part of village life.

At RFBI Basin View Masonic Village, Leonie Robinson has been recognised for more than 15 years of dedicated volunteer service. Through activities, bus outings, fundraising initiatives, companionship and her support of the Basin View Auxiliary, Leonie has enriched the lives of residents and strengthened the village community through her kindness and commitment.

Teamwork in Action

The RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village Maintenance Team, led by Maintenance Manager Michael Ball, has been recognised for its commitment to providing residents with a safe, welcoming and well-maintained environment.

The team’s professionalism, strong teamwork and “nothing is too hard” attitude have been instrumental in delivering refurbishment projects, responding to resident requests and maintaining the village grounds. Their dedication was particularly evident during challenging weather events, when they worked tirelessly to maintain village operations while supporting residents and staff.

Congratulations to Our Finalists

Congratulations to all of our finalists on this well-deserved recognition. Their achievements showcase the passion, innovation and care that define RFBI and demonstrate the incredible impact our people have on the lives of residents every day.

We wish Julie, Hilary, Kevin, Leonie and the RFBI Coffs Harbour Maintenance Team every success in the 2026 Ageing Australia You are ACE! Awards and look forward to celebrating the winners when they are announced next week.