Steve Giving Back at Caves

August 29, 2025

For Steve Kloos, working at Southern Cross Care Caves Beach isn’t just a job - it’s the perfect blend of purpose and passion. 

A lifelong local, Steve has lived in Caves Beach for over 50 years and now, as the home’s Maintenance Officer, finds himself caring for the very people who once looked after him. 

“I’ve not only grown up and played sport with the residents’ kids, but I remember seeing them behind the counters in shops, at sporting games and in their homes after school with my mates,” he said.  

“Now they are here, and I get to give back to the people who helped raise me which is incredibly special.” 

After three decades in the building industry, Steve did a stint in disability and mental health support before finding his place in aged care - a role that lets him combine his technical skills with his love of helping others. 

“I love looking after people, but I was missing the stimulation of fixing things and working with tools - so this is the perfect job for me,” he said. 

“You get to have fun with the residents, have a laugh and still do the maintenance work. 

“Although I really don’t call it a job, it’s an absolute pleasure spending time at the home, it’s like my baby and I like making sure it’s a happy and safe place for the residents and staff.” 

Steve says for him aged care isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. And in the familiar faces of Caves Beach, he’s found a second family and a way to give back. 

Each morning, he starts with a coffee and a chat before checking off his daily maintenance list—everything from plumbing repairs to safety checks.  

However, whether he’s arriving early, staying late, or going the extra mile, his motivation is simple: “This is their home and we’re here to make it as special as we can, so they don’t feel like they’re in a place that’s dull.  

“It’s definitely the bonding with the residents that I enjoy most and come to work excited every day. 

“I guess working in aged care you’ve got to be understanding, patient, and have a good sense of humour because they all have their own personalities and love to stir.” 

Known for his happy-go-lucky attitude and cheeky banter, Steve brings warmth and humour to the home. But when a resident he’s grown close to passes away, it hits hard. 

“I’m pretty emotional,” he admits. “It’s like losing family. I don’t hide it - I break down pretty easily. 

“Although that’s the cycle of life, and whether it’s having a laugh, lending a listening ear or making sure their phone is working so they can be in contact with their family, I do my best to make sure every day is special.”