Aaron’s new start from Karragarra Island

Aaron has been a registered customer with CoAct Connect + BUSY At Work Cleveland for a long time. He really wanted to work, but it had been hard to find the right opportunity. Aaron had experience in traffic control and was ready for a change. He wanted to move into a new career where he could feel more settled and proud of what he was doing.

Living on Karragarra Island made things even harder. There are not many local jobs, so Aaron was applying for roles on the mainland. That meant more competition, more travel planning, and more waiting to hear back.

I was keen to try something new, but it felt like I kept hitting walls. Aaron said.

Building skills for a fresh career in hospitality

With support from his mentor Ava, Aaron started exploring other pathways. In their conversations, Aaron shared that he was really interested in hospitality. It sounded like a better fit for what he wanted next. The problem was he did not have the certificates he needed to apply for many jobs in that area.

Ava moved quickly to help. Using the Employment Fund, she organised for Aaron to complete his RSA and RSG. These certificates helped Aaron become job-ready for roles in places like bottle shops and RSL venues.

Ava also made sure Aaron’s resume was updated so it matched his new goal. That way, when Aaron started applying, his experience and strengths were clear and easy for employers to see.

Aaron was ready to learn and give it a go. Ava said. Once he had the right tickets, we could really focus on getting him in front of employers.

Going the extra mile and landing the job

Even with the new certificates and an improved resume, Aaron started to feel frustrated. He was applying for jobs but not getting replies. He began to worry that his age might be getting in the way.

Ava noticed Aaron needed extra support and decided to take a more hands-on approach. She printed Aaron’s resume herself and did reverse marketing. That meant she went out to local bottle shops and spoke to employers directly, advocating for Aaron and letting them know what he could bring to a team.

That extra effort made a real difference. Ava’s proactive approach led to an interview opportunity at BWS. Soon after, Aaron secured work across two stores in Redland and Cleveland.

To help Aaron start smoothly, Ava also supported him with essential items like a Go Card and work clothing, so travel and getting ready for shifts felt more manageable.

I’m really happy where I’ve ended up. Aaron said. It feels good to be working in something new and to be given a chance.

Today, Aaron is thriving in his new role and enjoying his career change. His story shows what can happen when someone is willing to step into a new direction, and when the right support is there at the right time.

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