Three years ago Harry Lovett made the decision to quit school and take time out to consider what he wanted to do with his life.
Dropping out in Year 10, the former Noosa District State High School student was determined to follow his own path and make a success of his life.
After working in a couple of labouring jobs Harry decided to try his hand at landscaping and since then he hasn’t looked back.
Now working fulltime for Gardens by Lou in Noosaville, Harry is relishing the opportunity to learn new skills and work in a field that offers great variety and the benefits of being outdoors.
BUSY At Work Employment Consultant Noosaville, Natalie McIvor said Harry had come a long way since undertaking the Transition to Work (TtW) Program through BUSY At Work earlier this year.
“The Transition to Work Program is part of the Australian Government’s Youth Employment Strategy and is focused on building a young person’s skills, confidence and readiness to enter employment.”
“When Harry first came to us he had to overcome some personal barriers to ensure he was able to attend appointments.
He was always open to suggestions and we worked closely with him on his interview techniques and presentations skills.”
“He was able to secure employment with Gardens by Lou from his first interview and has proven himself to be a real asset,” Ms McIvor said.
Since joining the company, Harry has been learning about all aspects of landscaping including planting trees, hedging, concreting, paving and building of retaining walls.
Gardens by Lou owner, Lou McFarlane said Harry had excelled in all areas and was a delight to have on the team.
“Harry always goes about his work with a smile on his face and our other team members all really enjoy working with him.”
“He is an exceptional young man and is always keen to learn. He has picked up the skills very quickly and I couldn’t ask more from him,” Ms McFarlane said.
Now five months into the job Harry said he was excited to be working full time and learning something new every day.
“There are always different jobs to look forward to each day so you never get bored doing the same thing.”
“My partner and I would love to have our own landscaping business one day and this has given me the opportunity to learn what the landscaping business is all about,” Harry said.
In the future Harry said he was considering studying for his Certificate IV in Horticulture.
Harry was thankful for the support from BUSY At Work and the Transition to Work Program.
“The staff at BUSY were always open to suggestions as to what I wanted to do and the program gave me the confidence to apply for this job.”
“I am grateful to the support from BUSY At Work and would recommend the program to anyone wanting to improve their chances of getting a job,” Harry said.
BUSY At Work Managing Director Paul Miles, said the Transition to Work Program was a great way for young people to improve their employability and work readiness skills.
“With the support of BUSY At Work’s TtW team, young job seekers can gain the confidence they need to overcome challenges, learn new skills and make a positive start to their career.”
“Gardens by Lou have set an example for other employers in demonstrating how you can make a difference in a young person’s life,” Mr Miles said.
To participate in Transition to Work a young person must be aged between 15-21 and be an Australian citizen.
Wage subsidies of up to $6,500 are paid to employers over 12 months to help with hiring and training costs for eligible young people.
Wage subsidies of up to $10,000 are available for eligible candidates and currently some employees may also be eligible for a youth boost payment of $15,000 to $20,000.
For further details about the Transition to Work program please contact BUSY At Work on 13 28 79
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
0438 173 960 | leanne.macnamara@busyatwork.com.au
