Meet Cate Balfour-Ogilvy, ACH Group Volunteer Services Manager

From her early days in Renmark to her leadership roles across rural Australia, Cate’s life story is a testament to her passion for helping others and her dedication to fostering a sense of belonging among volunteers. In this interview, Cate shares her journey, insights, and the values that drive her work.

Tell us about yourself and your life journey that led you to become who you are.

I was born in Renmark and had an early start in different roles and experiences. In 1989, I had the incredible opportunity to be an exchange student in South Africa. After that, I pursued a Bachelor of Arts at Flinders University, although I often wonder why I chose that path!

In the early ’90s, I was fortunate to be crowned Miss Renmark and Miss Murraylands. I was lucky to have all four of my grandparents in my life until my early 20s, spending every school holiday in Adelaide.

My career has taken me across rural South Australia, New South Wales, and the Northern Territory, living and working in places like Renmark, Deniliquin, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie, Palmerston, Whyalla, Clare, and now Adelaide.

I’ve held numerous jobs, mainly in leadership roles within community services, including aged care, mental health, and disability.

My first job was managing the Renmark Tourist Office, where I had my first experience coordinating volunteers, many of whom knew me well. One was even a former teacher of mine!

My journey in community services began as a tutor for high school students at risk of nonattendance, a job I loved. One of my favourite roles was as Manager of the Top End Mental Health Organisation, a support group operated by people living with mental illness. It was truly inspiring.

What sparked your passion for guiding volunteers in making a difference and starting your role at ACH Group?

Working in aged care, I had long admired ACH Group for their leadership in person-directed care and their determination to promote choice and control. They always looked cool, and I remember hearing Ivy (Ivy Diegmann, General Manager Brand, Strategy & Innovation) speak on several occasions.

Volunteers bring such variety to our world with their different interests and life experiences. It’s amazing to watch volunteers connect with customers over shared interests or experiences.

On a personal level, I learn so much from them about doing my job better by understanding what truly matters.

Could you recount a moment that deeply resonated with you as a volunteer services manager?

There are so many moments, but one that stands out is the sense of togetherness that volunteering promotes. Recently, a couple of our volunteers became quite unwell, and the care and love that other volunteers showed them was heartwarming and beautiful.