Byron Bay youth proves that getting a job really can change your life

18 year-old Rainer Congdon has gone from being unemployed for nearly a year to now feeling like the luckiest person in the world after landing herself a job at the Byron at Byron Resort.

Rainer said there had been a “dramatic turnaround” in her life since securing work.

“I suffered from anxiety for a long time and used to be scared to even leave the house,” she said.

“Now I’m excited and leave home with a smile on my face. It’s actually really nice now waking up in the morning knowing I have something to do. I enjoy being at work as I’m surrounded by a beautiful environment and work team.”

Rainer said her father was very proud of her job and the difference he had seen in his daughter.

“He messages me most days saying how excited he is for me. It’s quite a prestigious place – some of my friends and especially my dad are really jealous of me at the moment,” laughed Rainer.

Leading up to her employment with the luxury Resort, Rainer connected with ETC Byron Bay to get help looking for and preparing herself for work.

“I’m in Transition to Work (TtW) service with ETC and I see Dee who has been really nice and helpful. She put me through some workshops to build my resume and interview skills,” she said.

Further to this Rainer was enrolled into ETC’s ServeIT Hospitality Training Program where she gained her RSA, RCG, Food Safety, Safe Food Handling and Barista training prior to two weeks industry training with Byron at Bryon.

“The ServeIT program also included personal grooming and ETC even paid for me to get a haircut which was nice,” she said.

“I also really enjoyed the opportunity to prove myself to the Management of Byron at Byron in a 2 week trial.”

Rainer was thrilled when she was offered a position as a Housekeeper.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to both ETC and Byron at Byron for their help and this chance to change my life,” she said.

Being ambitious and enthusiastic are two traits Rainer suggests are essential for all job seekers.

“Put in that extra bit of effort that you normally wouldn’t do. Don’t just sit around waiting for a job to come to you – get out there and push yourself. Also if you’re young like me then show that you can be mature when needed,” she said.

ETC provides employment and training services in Byron Bay. If you need help finding a job, are looking for staff or are interested in up-skilling, contact ETC on 1800 007 400 or drop into our local office in Marvell Street.