Catholic Healthcare St Francis Aged Care has won the inaugural Home of the Year award in the group’s Golden Dove Awards.

The Clinton Street facility beat 40 other facilities around Australia.

Manager Sharon Hesse said it was an award for all the staff, volunteers and residents.

“This is a small facility. It will grow but it has a wonderful heart,” she said.

“I am so proud of the residents, who I hope, we can meet those of your needs.”

Catholic Health Care general manager of residential care Andrew Kinkade said it was an “all-rounder” award.

“It’s about the people, the residents, the staff, you all work together to achieve great outcomes,” he said.

MAP: Where is Catholic Healthcare St Francis Aged Care …

“You have a wonderful foundation here and you managed to maintain that warmth over the years.”

Mr Kinkade said the two other finalists were from southern Sydney and from Queensland.

“We have 40 homes across Australia and growing, so there is lots of stiff competition,” he said.

“Quality care is all about the people.”

He said the award celebrated the skill, compassion and vitality of staff across several categories including innovations, outstanding leadership, values and the efforts of volunteers.

Mr Kinkade said he received a range of comments from staff and the community about the value of the St Francis Aged Care facility.

They included staff who said they felt supported by management and the efforts that went into helping residents.

“This home has had its fair share of challenges,” he read out from one person’s comments.

“Seeing staff rallying together and supporting each other and the broader community, compassionately and respectfully is both special and inspiring.”

He said another comment praised the condition of the facility.

“This is truly one of our remarkable homes. It is immaculate,” he said.

“From the neatly cut lawns as you come down the driveway, to the skirting boards free from chips and scratches, freshly painted rooms, surrounded by soft and elegant furnishings.”

The award was announced at a gala dinner in Sydney on November 29.