The Housing Hub: A Beacon of Hope and Support in the Community
In an exclusive interview, Karen, a representative from the Housing Hub, sheds light on the pivotal role played by the organisation alongside partners like TURSA and other community stakeholders. Where the focus on community engagement and wrap around services are providing a perfectly tailored solution to meet the varying needs of participants in need.
Hello, I’m Karen from the Housing Hub, a specialist homeless service funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Housing.
Karen, could you elaborate on the Housing Hub’s role within the community, particularly in collaboration with partners like TURSA?
Certainly. The Housing Hub operates under specific program guidelines to address homelessness, both with and without accommodation. We work closely with outreach teams to identify and support individuals in our community who are experiencing homelessness. Currently, we provide accommodation for up to 160 individuals, offering them a safe and warm environment while they engage with our support services to rebuild their lives.
How does the Housing Hub contribute to addressing the community’s needs, especially concerning employment and mental health support?
Our approach is holistic. We understand that stable accommodation is crucial for individuals to maintain employment and engage effectively in the community. It becomes easier to sustain employment with a safe place to rest, shower, and launder clothes. Additionally, homelessness often exacerbates mental health issues, making it difficult for individuals to cope with the demands of work. Therefore, our focus is on providing emergency housing and facilitating access to mental health support services.
Could you elaborate on the support services the Housing Hub and its partner organizations provide?
Certainly. In addition to emergency housing, we offer various support services tailored to individual needs. This includes onsite mental health workers, alcohol and other drug support workers, and assistance with accessing legal aid and financial counselling. Collaborating with organisations like TURSA, we aim to address the multifaceted challenges individuals experiencing homelessness face.
It sounds like the Housing Hub provides comprehensive support. How do you ensure that individuals relate to the appropriate services?
Building relationships is critical. Our housing support workers closely engage with residents to identify their barriers and needs. We facilitate regular visits from mental health workers, legal aid representatives, and financial counsellors to ensure residents receive timely and tailored support. Moreover, our partners like TURSA are vital in providing employment assistance, further enhancing our residents’ prospects for stable housing and financial independence.
It’s clear that the Housing Hub’s collaborative approach is significantly impacting the community. How do you measure the success of your programs?
Success, for us, is measured by the positive trajectories of individuals we support. We witness remarkable transformations as individuals secure employment, address their mental health concerns, and transition to stable housing. Each success story is a testament to our team’s dedication and the effectiveness of our collaborative partnerships. TURSA dedicating resources to attend the HUB every week is proving invaluable as it provides an environment where trust can be built with people who have come from an environment where they trust no one. We now see our clients finding purpose and transitioning from a shallow point to feeling anticipation and hope for the future and potential employment.
Thank you, Karen, for providing valuable insights into the work of the Housing Hub and its partners. Your efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness in our community.
Thank you for the opportunity to share our story. We remain committed to serving our community and empowering individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience.
Suzanne’s Journey: Focus, Training, Dedication and Transformation and now loving life again.
Interview with Suzanne – TURSA Participant
“Loving life”
Suzanne, it’s great to have you here today. How did TURSA support you in gaining confidence and securing a job you love?
Absolutely. When I returned from Bundaberg with my individual support in disability, I faced challenges getting into aged care. But thankfully, Kim at TURSA suggested that CHS Training offered personal support and aged care courses, so I enrolled.
That sounds like a pivotal moment. So, Suzanne, you enrolled into the course. How did that go?
Yes, I did the course about 18 months ago and finished it successfully. CHS were amazing and treated me like family.
Fantastic. Please tell us more about Kim’s support during this time.
Kim’s support was instrumental in my journey. She helped me get into training and assisted in finding job opportunities. I used to work for Daugherty, and now I’m with Wesley. Kim helped secure both those positions.
What other services or supports did Kim connect you with?
Kim helped boost my self-confidence a lot. It wasn’t just about finding jobs but about believing in myself and my abilities.
That’s wonderful to hear. Suzanne, how has your life changed since completing the course?
My job satisfaction has increased significantly. I love working in out-of-home care; it’s much more fulfilling. And thanks to Kim’s support, I feel more confident and capable in my role.
Suzanne, could you tell us about your journey with TURSA from the first time you joined?
I was with TURSA for about 6-7 months initially, and while I didn’t find work then, I continued my education. Then, I spent nine months in a nursing home, but it wasn’t the right fit for me. That’s when Kim suggested Wesley Mission, and the rest is history.
Suzanne, how quickly did things progress once Kim suggested Wesley?
It was amazing. Kim submitted my resume, and the next day, I got a call for an interview at Wesley. It felt like everything fell into place perfectly.
That’s incredible. It’s clear that TURSA and Kim, CHS Training and Wesley Mission have been invaluable in your journey, Suzanne. Thank you for sharing your story with us today.
CHS Training: Empowering the Community Through Collaboration to provide Training Support and Employment
Interview with Darren from CHS Training
About CHS Training
CHS Training, located next to the railway station in South Grafton, has been serving the community for close to 18 years. Initially focused on hospitality services, we’ve expanded into various areas, including RSA, RCG, Whitecard, Individual Support, construction, and traffic control training. We emphasize delivering face-to-face training that aligns with community needs and yields the best outcomes for our participants.
Collaboration with Community Organisations
Collaboration is vital in ensuring participants receive the support they need to succeed. Over the years, we’ve developed strong partnerships with organisations like TURSA. By understanding participants’ unique challenges, we can tailor our training to meet their requirements effectively. Our trainers are adept at contextualising the training to suit the individual, ensuring a personalised approach that maximises success.
A great example this is Suzanne who came to us through TURSA and is now successfully employed at Wesley Mission and loving her new role.
Impact of Collaboration
We’ve had participants who have faced significant barriers to employment, whether it’s lack of experience or other personal challenges. Through our collaboration with organisations like TURSA, we’ve provided training, ongoing support, and guidance. This holistic approach has enabled participants to gain confidence, acquire new skills, and secure employment opportunities. Seeing individuals overcome obstacles and thrive in their chosen fields is incredibly rewarding.
Our Goal
At CHS Training, we aim to empower individuals to reach their full potential. Whether through RSA certification, Whitecard training, or any other course, we strive to equip participants with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their chosen careers. By collaborating with organisations like TURSA and companies like Wesley Mission, we can ensure that everyone receives the support they require to achieve their goals and contribute positively to the community.
WORKING TOGETHER WE CREATE GREAT OUTCOMES!
Empowering Communities: The Collaboration of Wesley Mission Home Care and TURSA
Discover the remarkable collaboration between Wesley Mission – Home Care, CHS Training and TURSA in Grafton, which has been enriching the lives of community members like Suzanne. This partnership is a testament to their shared commitment to provide holistic support and empowerment through various programs and initiatives. Suzanne talks about her journey HERE
Wesley Mission Home Care’s Dedication
Wesley Mission Home Care is known for its dedication to enhancing the well-being of individuals in regional communities. Their collaboration with TURSA, a leading employment service provider, and CHS Training ensures that their clients receive the best possible care and support.
The Partnership
The partnership between Wesley Mission Home Care and TURSA has spanned over three years. During this time, TURSA has been instrumental in providing Wesley Mission Home Care with qualified staff and ongoing support. This collaboration has created pathways for individuals like Suzanne to thrive in their roles and make a positive impact.
The Impact
Through TURSA’s placement services and post-placement support, individuals like Suzanne receive the necessary guidance and resources to excel in their careers. From resume building to skills training, every candidate is equipped for success. The transformative impact of this collaboration is evident in Suzanne’s journey, which exemplifies the effectiveness of their collective efforts in providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The Commitment
The commitment of Wesley Mission Home Care and TURSA to community engagement goes beyond providing services; it’s about fostering connections and creating opportunities for all. By partnering with organizations like TURSA, they strengthen the fabric of their communities and empower individuals to reach their full potential. Together, Wesley Home Care and TURSA are not just service providers; they are catalysts for change, advocates for inclusivity, and champions of community well-being.
Get Involved
Are you inspired by the work of Wesley Mission Home Care and TURSA? Looking to make a change and secure a job – Contact TURSA today!
Hear from Darren at CHS Training about the services and support they offer as part of the wrap around services offered by providers in the region CLICK HERE
In a recent conversation with TURSA, Belinda Robinson from JB Supports – Support Coordination emphasised the importance of communication, education, collaboration, and wrap-around service provision between support coordinators and job services providers. This collaboration is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome for participants with employment supports in their NDIS plan.
Belinda highlighted a case where a client, despite initial setbacks, remained passionate about working. Through extensive collaboration with various stakeholders, including the client, his support worker, and professionals from TURSA, they were able to understand his needs, preferences, and capabilities. This team effort led to the client feeling supported and involved in his employment journey, fueling his passion even more.
Belinda stressed that collaboration between organizations and support coordinators ensures seamless support and resource access, leading to better opportunities and experiences for everyone involved.
Here is the Interview
Belinda Robinson from JB Supports – Support Coordination
Good morning, Belinda. Thank you for joining us today. After speaking with you briefly at our Caloundra opening, I realised what a fantastic outcome you had to share. Could you please share with our readers your insights on the importance of collaboration and the value someone with a disability brings to the workplace, particularly about their desire and passion to work and have a purpose?
Belinda: Absolutely. Collaboration is paramount when supporting individuals with disabilities in the workplace. One of our recent experiences highlights this beautifully. We had a client who initially found successful work about 12 months ago, but unfortunately, it didn’t work out due to scheduling conflicts. However, his passion and eagerness to work remained strong. He was desperate for an opportunity, constantly expressing his desire to start working again.
That’s truly inspiring. Can you elaborate on how collaboration played a role in this case?
Of course. Our team worked closely with various stakeholders to explore new opportunities, including the client himself, his support worker, and other professionals like Shayne and Wade from TURSA. We collaborated extensively to understand his needs, preferences, and capabilities. It was a team effort, with everyone committed to finding the best solution for him.
It sounds like a concerted effort from all parties involved. How did this collaboration help the client?
The client felt supported every step of the way. He was involved in decision-making and had a say in his employment journey. This sense of empowerment fueled his passion even more. Moreover, having a support worker by his side gave him the necessary help while he gradually transitioned to independence. It’s a testament to the value of collaboration in creating inclusive work environments.
Indeed, inclusivity and support go hand in hand. From your perspective, how important is it for organisations to collaborate with support coordinators like yourself?
Collaboration between organisations and support coordinators ensures seamless support and resource access. By working together, we can use expertise and resources to maximise outcomes for individuals with disabilities. It’s about aligning goals, sharing information, and collectively addressing challenges. Ultimately, it leads to better opportunities and experiences for everyone involved.
Thank you, Belinda, for sharing your insights on the significance of collaboration and the invaluable contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workplace. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.
The pleasure is mine. Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this critical topic.
Collaboration is the key to unlocking greater opportunities for participants seeking improved job outcomes. When Support Coordinators from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and TURSA work together, they create a powerful synergy that enhances the lives of those they serve. By connecting participants to NDIS and other supports, building their capacity, and brokering services aligned with their goals, these collaborative efforts pave the way for success. Let’s champion collaboration, share knowledge, and empower participants on their journey toward meaningful employment. Together, we can make a difference!
Think Jobs...Trust TURSA
Berrick Hardwick – Fresh and Frozen: A Journey into Work
Meet Berrick Hardwick
Berrick Hardwick, a ‘driving force’ at Fresh and Frozen, has a remarkable story of resilience and determination. After surviving a severe heart attack, Berrick found himself longing to return to work. His journey led him to TURSA, an approachable employment agency that would change his life.
The Turning Point
What brought you to TURSA?
Berrick explains, “I had been on Disability Employment Services (DES) for five years after my near-death experience. I was tired of sitting idle and wanted to get back to work. That’s when I was referred to TURSA at Coomera, and later, I moved to Beenleigh.”
Navigating the TURSA Process
Berrick found TURSA’s support invaluable. They helped him with paperwork and phone usage and provided expert guidance. “TURSA is probably the best agency I’ve ever worked with,” he says. “Their communication is excellent, and they genuinely care about their participants.”
From Business Owner to Courier Driver
Having owned his own business previously, Berrick was no stranger to hard work. However, due to health concerns, he needed to explore new avenues. “I considered driving buses,” he recalls. “But my heart condition made it challenging. Instead, I looked for courier or driver jobs.”
Unfortunately, a bus job near Hyperdome didn’t meet his expectations. “They wanted us to clean buses after hours without pay,” Berrick shares. “It wasn’t feasible. That’s when I turned to Frishta, my Disability Employment Advocate.”
A New Beginning
Frishta introduced Berrick to FreshnFrozen, where he found purpose and stability. “I work Monday to Friday, 9 to 12 hours a day,” he says. “The salary setup allows flexibility; some days, I finish earlier.”
Overcoming Challenges
Being out of work for an extended period took a toll on Berrick. “I struggled with anxiety and lost confidence,” he admits. “But thanks to TURSA’s support, I’ve improved. Dealing with clients is easier now.”
Words of Wisdom
When asked what advice he’d give a friend, Berrick doesn’t hesitate. “Just go and see TURSA,” he emphasises. “They understand, listen, and genuinely help. Unlike other agencies, TURSA doesn’t push you aside. They’re here for you.”
Berrick’s journey with TURSA and Fresh and Frozen exemplifies the power of resilience and community support. If you’re seeking employment assistance, take a page from Berrick’s book—visit TURSA and discover a path to meaningful work.
Berrick, His Wife, and the Journey of Resilience
A Car Accident and a Helping Hand
Berrick and his wife faced a life-altering car accident. In the aftermath, TURSA stepped in to provide support. His wife, who was also registered with TURSA, needed assistance. Frishta, ensured they had access to transportation—whether Uber rides or other means—to help them navigate their challenges and maintain access to employment.
Bob’s Generosity
But the story doesn’t end there. Bob, Owner at Fresh and Frozen, went above and beyond. He lent Berrick one of his personal cars, ensuring that Berrick could continue his journey of employment. Bob’s generosity made a significant impact, allowing Berrick to regain independence and mobility.
A Remarkable Transformation
And then came an unexpected twist. Berrick’s wife, who had been legally blind, also found employment through TURSA. Today, she works full-time, defying the odds. Her vision has improved, and she can now see the world around her.
A Tale of Resilience
Berrick, his wife, and the entire support network—Frishta, Bob, and TURSA—have woven a tale of resilience, compassion, and determination. Their journey reminds us that sometimes, it takes a village to transform lives.
If you’re facing challenges, remember that allies are ready to walk alongside you. Visit TURSA, and let your journey begin.
Lionel’s Journey: From Casual Musician to Warehouse Worker
Meet Lionel
Lionel, a talented keyboard player, has faced his share of challenges. His journey to meaningful employment took him through twists and turns, but it ultimately led him to TURSA, where he found a supportive community and a chance to make a difference.
The Prelude
Before joining TURSA, Lionel’s work history was unconventional. “I’ve played music,” he says, “and some might consider that a ‘real’ job. But I hadn’t held down consistent employment for a long time—maybe 15 to 20 years.”
The Turning Point
Enter TURSA. Lionel’s Disability Employment Advocate encouraged him to explore job opportunities. Initially hesitant, Lionel decided to give it a shot. “I didn’t think I’d succeed,” he admits. But when he landed a job, everything changed.
A Positive Impact
Working at Fresh and Frozen—both in the warehouse and as a delivery driver—proved transformative. “It’s been great for my mental health,” Lionel shares. “And it’s helped me feel more connected to the world.”
TURSA provided essential support, from petrol assistance to resume building. “They genuinely care,” Lionel emphasises. “They understand the challenges and provide practical solutions.”
Looking Back
Reflecting on his 12 months at Fresh and Frozen, Lionel wishes he’d started this journey 20 years ago. “I feel better,” he says. “More a part of the planet.”
Overcoming Obstacles
Lionel battled depression and anxiety before finding stability through work. “Keeping busy is essential,” he notes. “And there are plenty of resources out there.”
A Beacon of Understanding
TURSA’s approach resonated with Lionel. “They listen,” he explains. “They connect you with the right contacts. It’s about understanding and support.”
Lionel’s story underscores the power of perseverance and community. If you’re navigating your own path, take inspiration from Lionel—visit TURSA and discover how they can help you find your place in the world.
Frishta: Guiding the Journey
Meet Frishta
As a Disability Employment Advocate at TURSA, Frishta plays a pivotal role in the success stories of participants like Berrick and Lionel. Her dedication and understanding have made a lasting impact.
A Pleasure to Serve
Frishta reflects, “Working with Berrick and Lionel has been a pleasure. Each client brings a unique backstory, motivations, and expectations. Many have tried other service providers, and they arrive at TURSA with a mix of hope and scepticism.”
Listening and Empowering
Frishta’s approach is simple yet powerful. “I listen,” she says. “I empower them to recognise their potential. There’s often resistance, but that’s part of the journey.”
Trial and Error
Navigating employment opportunities involves trial and error. “We send clients to job interviews, refer them to positions,” Frishta explains. “Sometimes it works seamlessly; other times, we adjust. With Berrick and Lionel, we’ve been by their side throughout.”
The Right Fit
Berrick faced medical clearance challenges for specific jobs. “We backed out,” Frishta recalls. “But we persisted. We won’t settle until we find the right fit.”
Beyond Placement
Frishta’s commitment extends beyond job placement. “We stay connected,” she emphasises. “Life gets busy, but we’re here—supporting, encouraging, and ensuring they thrive.”
A great employer makes all the difference
Understanding employers like Bob at FreshNFrozen play a pivotal role in fostering a positive work environment.
Bob’s commitment to his staff goes beyond the conventional employer-employee relationship. By providing his own personal vehicle to an employee in need, he demonstrates empathy and genuine concern. Such actions not only retain valuable team members but also create a sense of loyalty and trust.
Bob’s philosophy—that success hinges on understanding individual needs and aligning them with business goals—holds true. It’s not merely about the job service provider; it’s about the person behind it, someone who comprehends the intricacies of the business and ensures the right people are in place. Bob’s approach exemplifies effective leadership and underscores the importance of human connections in the workplace.
Words of Wisdom
For those seeking employment, Frishta offers advice: “Reach out. We understand. We’re here to help. TURSA isn’t just an agency; it’s a community.”
Beric, Lionel, and countless others owe their progress to advocates like Frishta and dedicated Disability Employment Advocates who work tirelessly to help them achieve their goals. If you’re on your own journey, remember: TURSA is ready to walk alongside you.
Introduction
Collaboration between organisations and employers is critical to achieving sustainable outcomes in employment. This article highlights the seamless cooperation between Tursa Employment & Training, Certis Security, and Asset College and their collective efforts to secure jobs for individuals like Suzanne who now gets to be mixing in celebrity circles.
A Star-Studded Collaborative Success Story
Suzanne’s Journey
Suzanne, a former florist, had faced health issues and personal loss, leading her to believe she was too old to find work. However, her journey took a turn when she was introduced to the security industry through a training course at Asset College, funded by TURSA. Despite initial scepticism, Suzanne embraced the opportunity and secured employment. What made it even more exciting for her was the fact that she could attend a number of concerts and get literally face to face with celebrities on the job.
Travis Marsham – Certis Security
Travis Marsham, the State Events Manager for Certis Security, spoke about the company’s relationship with Asset College. Certis Security offers newcomers to the industry the opportunity to start as customer service officers while they undertake their training. This approach allowed Suzanne to gain experience in customer service roles at venues like the Gallery of Modern Art before transitioning into a security role. Travis emphasised the importance of life experience and maturity that individuals like Suzanne bring to the industry so that they can mix in celebrity circles or provide concierge or I.D. checking services professionally and seamlessly between them. Find out more about the opportunities in the security sector CLICK HERE
Mike Addicott – Asset College
Mike Addicott, the National Manager for Asset College, highlighted the organisation’s focus on employment. Asset College operates across Australia, offering training in security and associated disciplines. Mike discussed the “win, win, win” strategy, where graduates, the department, and employers all benefit. He also emphasised the importance of diversity in the industry and its opportunities for good earnings and flexible roles.
Melinda – TURSA
Melinda Clarke, a Disability Employment Advocate at TURSA, discussed the importance of working with partners, training organisations, and employers to assist participants in finding employment. She shared Suzanne’s transformation from uncertainty to a place of enthusiasm and joy in her work. Suzanne’s experiences include working at high-profile events and meeting celebrities like Pink and Def Leppard.
Mitch highlighted the industry’s need for more women and diversity. The roles available in the industry are vast, ranging from concierge and building security to university and government security. The emphasis is on customer service, with employers often stating that an excellent retail customer service person can make an even better security officer.
Sam – TURSA
Sam, the Business Liaison Team member for the Gold Coast at TURSA, discussed the importance of liaising with employers and job-matching TURSA clients. She emphasised the importance of educating employers about Disability Employment Services and addressing barriers before placing clients into work. Sam shared an instance of resolving a misunderstanding between an employer and an Indigenous Australian employee who needed to be absent from work for family business, demonstrating the importance of communication and a deeper cultural understanding. Without organisations like TURSA providing this post-placement support, the risk of misunderstanding and potential job loss becomes far more likely.
Conclusion
Suzanne’s story is a testament to the power of collaboration between organisations and employers in achieving sustainable employment outcomes. It underscores the importance of diversity in the industry and the transformative impact of employment on individuals’ lives.
Collaboration Between TURSA and Strategic Partners Paves the Way for Career Success.
In pursuing personal and professional growth, individuals often encounter challenges and uncertainties. With collaboration between service providers and trainings doors open.
Victoria’s path from post-school uncertainty to a thriving career in aged care showcases the impactful collaboration between TURSA, a job service provider, and key partners like NV College and NVC Group.
I spent the first 12 months with TURSA looking at options and trying to find my way. It wasn't until I did their Steps Towards Work Program that I discovered my career passion.
Victoria candidly shared her initial struggles with post-school uncertainty.
However, her fortunes changed when she joined TURSA’s “Steps Towards Work” program, a three-day initiative to help participants explore career paths. During this program, she was introduced to Enrico from NVC Group, who highlighted the opportunities in aged care and their Care Ready course.
Collaboration
The collaboration between TURSA and NV College became evident as Victoria progressed through the Care Ready course, providing her with essential skills and a taste of the industry. The collaborative effort was not just about coursework; it extended to practical experiences, such as Victoria’s time at Autumn Lodge, and as a result she gained hands-on experience feeding residents.
Discussions with Chris, Victoria’s TURSA employment advisor, shed light on the ongoing support provided to individuals like Victoria. Chris emphasised the importance of the relationship between job service providers and training organisations, praising the seamless coordination that enables participants to find direction and pursue educational opportunities.
Career Gateway Through Collaboration
The involvement of NV College in the process was crucial. The “Steps Towards Work” program served as a gateway, exposing participants to potential careers. The collaborative approach between the college and NVC Group allowed Victoria to progress from short courses to a Certificate III in Individual Support. This resulted in gaining a traineeship offer from NVC Group at Riverside Gardens.
Kylie, a passionate staff member from NVC Group, highlighted the significance of early exposure to industry realities. The college’s partnerships with industry players, including NVC Group, allowed students like Victoria to explore their interests and make informed career decisions.
Career Doors Open with Collaboration
Further insights came from discussions with Victoria’s prospective employer at Riverside Gardens. During a speed interview, the employer admired Victoria’s eagerness to learn and emphasized the comprehensive support network at Riverside Gardens. This resulted in Victoria being offered a Traineeship in her dream career. The collaboration extended beyond job placement, encompassing ongoing support and transportation assistance.
In conclusion, Victoria’s journey illustrates the positive outcomes that result from a well-established collaboration between job service providers, training organizations, and employers. The collective effort, from skills development to job placement and ongoing support, showcases the potential for collaboration to be a driving force in transforming lives and steering individuals towards successful careers.
Working Together Gets Results
Jack – Finding Freedom: Overcoming Struggles and Embracing Change
In a candid conversation in Lismore, we sit down with Jack, a resilient individual whose life took a transformative turn at TURSA. Jack opened up about his battles with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, shedding light on his remarkable journey from isolation to finding freedom and purpose from his barriers.
Depression, anxiety and dependency
Before Jack found his way to TURSA, his life was marked by heavy depression, anxiety, and a relentless struggle with drug and alcohol addiction. Forced to move back home due to life’s circumstances, Jack found solace, but it was only upon reaching TURSA that his outlook took an upward turn and he began finding freedom.
A Turning Point
His encounter with Stacy at TURSA became a turning point. Jack vividly recalls the initial meeting having a positive progression in only a few minutes. It laid the foundation for a pathway that met Jack’s needs. The prospect of rehab crossed his mind initially, but after just one week, the transformative experience at TURSA, mainly working at the showgrounds, made him reconsider.
Work for the Dole
Jack’s requirement to undertake Work for the Dole program, marked the beginning of his journey to recovery. Impressively, within eight weeks, Jack’s dedication and strong work ethic not only earned him connections but also opportunities. The president and vice president of the Show Society recognised his potential, leading to an offer to work as the head traffic controller for significant events.
Newfound Interest
Reflecting on his experience, Jack expresses a newfound interest in pursuing a career as a traffic controller. He discusses upcoming courses and potential paths, highlighting the positive impact of the opportunities presented to him.
As Jack narrates his story, it becomes evident that his struggle with anxiety has significantly diminished. Jack was previously unable to make eye contact or construct proper sentences, so he attributes his transformation to stepping out of his comfort zone. The experience at the showgrounds helped overcome much of his public anxiety and build his confidence, allowing him to communicate and work effectively with others.
Staying Aware – A Conscious Effort
Acknowledging the ongoing need for awareness, Jack emphasises the conscious effort required to prevent a regression into past struggles. Despite facing challenges, he finds solace in his work, particularly at the showgrounds, where he thrives in a physical and social environment.
Jack envisions further growth, with Saturdays at the showground providing paid work and the rest of the week dedicated to volunteering. He plans to obtain his RSA and RCG for additional job opportunities. The supportive network at TURSA, and especially from Trev, ensures Jack’s continued involvement in significant events, boosting his confidence and motivation.
Stacy – Jack’s Employment Adviser
In a brief conversation with Stacy, Jack’s Employment Adviser, it becomes clear that Jack’s journey is a testament to the effectiveness of TURSA’s proactive approach.
Stacy highlights Jack’s initial timidness and anxiety, emphasising the positive impact of working collaboratively to overcome barriers. She encourages other individuals like Jack to reach out, they do not have to struggle alone, assuring them that TURSA is here to help, not hinder.
Finding Freedom through Resilience, Support and that First Step
Jack’s story at TURSA exemplifies the power of resilience, support, and the transformative impact of seizing opportunities. His journey sends a powerful message – it’s okay to seek help, and with the proper support, positive change is not only possible but achievable.
Both Stacey and Jack had a message they wanted to share:
Sailfish Catamaran help build dreams
Sailfish Catamarans & TURSA share this heartwarming story. Demonstrating through partnerships young people can discover their future career. Sailfish Catamaran’s dedication to apprenticeships in partner with TURSA help to transform the lives of young talent and create an environment where they can flourish.
Commitment to Empowerment
Sailfish Catamaran believe that every individual possesses untapped potential waiting to be discovered. All in All their commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment has built a partnership with TURSA that spans many years.
Meet Tjundamarra “TJ”:
One such inspiring individual is TJ, a proud Indigenous man with an unwavering passion for welding and boiler making. His journey with Sailfish Catamaran is a testament to the transformative power of apprenticeships. As a result, he was happy to briefly shares his experience in the video below about his job and study at TAFE.
The Sailfish Catamaran Difference:
Take pride in crafting not just catamarans, but also dreams and opportunities. Their partnership with TURSA enables them to identify and mentor young talents like TJ through structured apprenticeships. Above all, they’re not only building high-quality catamarans but also nurturing the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
TURSA: Bridging the Gap:
TURSA plays a pivotal role in employment collaboration, acting as a bridge between aspiring apprentices and companies like Sailfish Catamaran. Their comprehensive training programs, support, and employment opportunities empower young individuals to explore their full potential.
Transformative Apprenticeships:
Sailfish’s philosophy aligns with ours – the belief in the transformative power of supported employment and apprenticeships. By providing young people with the tools and mentorship they need to develop their skills and find a sense of purpose, TURSA is actively contributing to the growth of local workforce and communities.
TJ’s Story:
TJ’s journey with Sailfish Catamaran has been nothing short of remarkable. He’s not just welding and crafting; he’s creating dreams on the water. He’s finding his confidence, his voice and his talent Being part of a team that values his heritage, skills, and aspirations has allowed him to flourish in his role.
Joining Forces to Create Opportunities:
The story of TJ and Sailfish Catamaran demonstrates what can be achieved when innovative companies and community-focused organisations come together. We celebrate the diversity and talent that Indigenous youth bring to the workforce and are committed to continuing our mission of empowering the next generation of skilled workers.
So, the next time you see a Sailfish Catamaran out on the water, remember that it represents more than just a boat. It’s a symbol of hope, an emblem of opportunity, and a testament to the incredible transformation that occurs when communities and companies join forces.
Stay Connected:
To stay updated on our journey of empowerment and innovation, follow us on social media, @tursajobs and keep an eye out for more inspiring stories like TJ’s. Together, we can create a brighter future for all one job at a time.
Tursa Employment & Training acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.
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