Life changing jobs for Mid North Coast Indigenous job seekers

A partnership between ETC and Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia has seen local Mid North Coast Indigenous job seekers find life changing jobs. These job seekers have developed their skills, confidence and career prospects at one of the largest resorts in the Southern Hemisphere – Ayers Rock Resort.

ETC Aboriginal Employment Advisor Jennie Rosser (Aunty Jen) said the relationship with Voyages started 2 and a half years ago after they contacted ETC to organise some recruitment information sessions.

“I developed a strong connection with the Voyages HR Team and then 17 of our clients were sent out to Ayers Rock Resort for an ACITE induction block,” Aunty Jen said.

“This provided our clients with work experience, exposure to industry leaders, mentoring support and assessment for a career in Tourism at Ayers Rock Resort.”

Aunty Jen recently travelled to the Red Centre to meet with the ETC clients and attend graduation provided by the Voyages Indigenous Traineeship Program.

“Seven are still currently employed which is fantastic. Six graduated with three of them staying on board and the other three moving on to other employment locations,” Aunty Jen said.

Spending four days at Ayers Rock Resort Aunty Jen was able to witness the incredible change in each and every one of her Aboriginal job seekers.

“Before they came out here they were quiet, shy, withdrawn, and unsure of coming to a different country and leaving their families behind. Now I can see how confident they are and they all have developed great work ethic,” Aunty Jen said.

“We (ETC) are extremely proud of all their achievements. Taking a leap of faith and stepping outside their comfort zones has had a wonderful impact on their lives.”

20-year-old Nambucca Valley local Chatesha is thrilled to be working as a Food and Beverage Attendant at the 5 Star Sails in the Desert resort.

“My life has had a huge change – I’m living without my family and earning my own money. I’ve become more independent which is good. It was the push that I needed as I was way too dependent on my parents,” Chatesha said.

22-year-old Kempsey local Joseph has followed his passion for horticulture and is working as a Landscaper at Ayers Rock Campground.

“Before I moved out here I wasn’t doing anything, just sitting at home. It’s great now because I can walk into a shop and buy whatever I want. Money is not an issue now,” Joseph said.

Nambucca local Tony said his life has changed tremendously after he moved to Central Australia to work as a Houseman at the Desert Gardens Motel.

“I was a bit hesitant as it was such a long journey, but I took the leap, and I’ve never regretted coming out here. I’ve found more skills, new direction in life and more opportunities than I can poke a stick at,” Tony said.

Tyrone, also from Nambucca is loving life working as a Food and Beverage attendant at Bough Restaurant, situated next to the Outback Pioneer Motel.

“I think it’s good for Indigenous people to move away and learn for themselves, be independent, earn money and have a job schedule to stick to. Working here will open up a lot of opportunities for me,” Tyrone said.

Forster local 19-year-old Zachary has started off as a Kitchen Steward at the 5 Star Sails in the Desert Resort with ambitions to become a Chef.

“I wasn’t doing anything before I moved out here, I was unemployed for nearly 2 years. It’s great now having a job and earning money. I can buy whatever I want and I’m saving a lot. My goal is to complete an Apprenticeship and save as much as I can towards buying my own house back home,” Zachary said.

To find out more about Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia visit www.voyages.com.au

Indigenous Employment – Hiring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff