Welcoming Our Mackay Program Trainer, Bianca: Bridging Experience and Heart in Every Session
At Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH), the heart of our programs lies in the people who lead them—passionate, experienced individuals who support our participants to grow in unique and meaningful ways.
We’re thrilled to introduce our new Program Trainer in Mackay, Bianca, who brings a strong foundation in disability support and a deep love of hearts and paws to the role.
With over eight years of experience in the disability sector, including five years as a Support Coordinator, Bianca is no stranger to walking alongside participants with varying support needs to help them build meaningful and empowered lives. Her background includes supporting people to make informed decisions, set achievable goals, and take steps toward greater independence—all skills that are perfectly aligned with the outcomes we work toward in every HPHH program.
"I know how important it is to guide and support people in a way that’s tailored to them and their own journeys”, said Bianca.
A perfect match of people and paws
Bianca discovered HPHH through a job listing — and instantly knew it was something special.
“I never knew a role like this existed! The diversity of working with humans and animals and seeing how each can impact the other, it’s something I feel lucky to be a part of every week.”
In her new role, Bianca is already embracing the full diversity of the experience: engaging with participants, getting hands-on working with shelter animals, and shaping sessions that are personalised to participants’ strengths, interests and goals.
"I love being part of the session planning and ensuring what we do supports each participant to build confidence while also creating a positive experience for the animals we work with."
In a short time, Bianca has already witnessed powerful moments of growth including gently challenging participants to step outside of their comfort zones by working with animals they may not have previously connected with.
“Not everyone expects to be working with rats! But watching participants go from hesitant to gently holding, feeding, and engaging with them is incredible. It shows how being open to new experiences can build trust and confidence—in themselves and in the animals.”
A foundation of empathy and understanding
Bianca approaches her work with a clear belief: that everyone, human or animal, is an individual with their own strengths and challenges, and it’s in recognising this that genuine growth happens.
“No one is defined by labels. What matters is how we create environments where people and animals alike feel seen, supported, and capable of success.”
Bianca’s unique experience, passion and heart for disability services adds a valuable layer of expertise to our Mackay team and we are so excited to have her on board.
When she’s not delivering sessions at HPHH, you’ll find her walking outdoors, sharing stories about her skydiving adventures, or overseas travels (she’s already been to eight countries!).
We’re proud to welcome her to the HPHH family, and excited to see the lasting impact she’ll make in Mackay.
If you're a local support coordinator, provider or organisation looking to connect your participants to a program that’s equal parts animal care, personal development, and purpose-driven fun—reach out. We’d love to introduce you to HPHH and meet some of our amazing Program Trainers like Bianca who are the heart behind each session.
Visit our website at hphhfoundation.org to learn more about us and the programs we deliver from the ears to the tail of Australia to support people on a journey of social inclusion and wellbeing.