Dylon started as a volunteer and has now landed a permanent job at The Manor, a residential aged care centre near Launceston. He’s part of the maintenance team, responsible for caring for the centre’s gardens and grounds.
Before starting work at The Manor, Dylon had never used any garden maintenance equipment. But with the support of his team members and his job trainer from Possability, Dylon’s learnt to use the equipment safely, ensuring the protection of his coworkers and the residents.
“I was second-guessing myself a lot when I first started because I’ve never been out here before. It’s something new for me. I would ask for a second opinion or get someone to look over everything I was doing – and it turns out that what I had done was good,” says Dylon.
Dylon is looking after the compost stalls and vermiculture sub-pods, helping him learn about sustainability. He’s also learning new skills and techniques by undertaking reactive and preventative maintenance work.
“We are very lucky to have Dylon working with us. He is very positive, has a go-getting attitude, and brings a great sense of humour to our team, which makes work lovely. My advice for anyone looking to employ someone with a disability is to go for it,” says Kim from The Manor’s Maintenance Team.
Dylon’s advice to other people with a disability is to get out there and give it a go.
“I’m out here actually doing something, learning, and making a difference. Just get out there – you never really know what you can do until you get out there and try,” says Dylon.
If you’re keen to learn about our Pathways to Employment service, click here.