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Justin_Woolworths sq

Justin’s Story

After working closely with Justin to enhance his skill set and completing various work experience placements, we found the perfect employment fit for him at Woolworths in Treendale. Justin quickly learned new workplace skills and became proficient at stacking shelves.
Over time Justin has progressed to working independently and has his own trolley/cage to stock shelves having his own designated area. His other duties include, sweeping the shop at the beginning of shift (always with a smile), removal of empty boxes from shelves, organising stock to front of shelves and replacing stock in correct location if it has been left elsewhere.
Justin has now been working at Woolworths for over 2 years and has progressed from full support, to fortnightly on the job support visits to maintain his long-term employment. Recently, Justin was awarded Team Member of the month – ‘For demonstrating outstanding care for our Customers & Team.’
It is so important to find the right job for the right person. We are so proud of what Justin has achieved.

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Joshua’s Story

Joshua joined Forrest Personnel at our Margaret River site in August 2023. From the start, Joshua impressed our consultants with his immaculate manners and gentle personality.
Joshua was recovering from burn-out from a previously over demanding work schedule where he had no support, working as a kitchenhand in aged care. Together, we identified his goals and aspirations for future work. Although he was eager to enhance his employability skills, Joshua felt unsure about entering the customer-facing world of hospitality due to a lack of confidence.
A perfect opportunity arose at the Margaret River Fudge Factory offering a position that involved fudge production, customer service, and coffee making. Our team worked closely with Joshua, providing support throughout the application process. Despite challenges due to a change in ownership, our persistence paid off, and Joshua was offered the position!
This role not only builds on Joshua’s kitchen experience but also provides valuable new skills, including operating the cash register, customer service, and becoming a barista. These skills are particularly valuable in a tourist town like Margaret River.
Joshua’s ‘sweet’ success story is a testament to his fine qualities and our team’s commitment to matching the right participant with the right employer.
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Tom’s Story

Meet Tom, who has been working diligently at Containers for Change since December 2022 as a container sorter. Tom faced challenges in staying focused at work, which led to reduced hours and put his job at risk.

But guess what? The power of a simple idea turned things around!

Forrest Personnel’s Albany Team introduced a straightforward plan for Tom: using a timer. He sets 45 minutes to count as many cans as possible, without getting distracted or wandering off. Afterward, he enjoys a well-deserved 5–10-minute break to recharge and engage with coworkers before resetting the timer.

His coworkers were informed about the process, allowing them to support Tom by encouraging him to restart the timer if needed. The impact was incredible!

Thanks to this ingenious approach, not only was Tom’s job saved, but his hours have been increased again! His coworkers, initially sceptical, were amazed at the difference and noticed a significant boost in productivity across the entire site.

Tom’s newfound confidence within the workplace is truly inspiring. This story reminds us all, that sometimes, the simplest ideas can lead to major outcomes!

Congratulations to Tom for his determination and to our Albany Team for their innovative solution.

Ben Shirt_web

Ben’s Story

Having lived experience of social anxiety, Ben knew he needed to re-enter the workforce. Following a conversation with a family member who had successfully secured full-time employment with Forrest Personnel, Ben decided to approach Forrest Personnel and discuss the services available to him.

After his first appointment on the 8 November 2021 Ben was asked if he would be interested in trolley collecting, and by the end of November he had completed his training and started his role as a casual trolley collector with Forrest Personnel Trolley Collection Services in Esperance.

Ben said, “To overcome my social anxiety, I got help from my doctor with a mental health plan, I followed that plan and then started back into work, with a few shorter shifts per week and increased those hours gradually so as not to feel overwhelmed”.

As time went on, Ben gained in confidence and took on extra employment with the Esperance Exchange Depot and continued extra gardening work at a local school.

After showing his ability to communicate and supervise other members of the team, Ben accepted the permanent part-time position of Leading Hand and no longer needed to work three jobs. Ben’s ability to take on additional tasks while also assisting the Albany and Kalgoorlie Trolley teams with admin and rosters, made him the perfect candidate to become Trolley Facilitator.

Ben has been in the full-time Trolley Facilitator role for about 3 months now and said the best part of his job is, “Being able to help and support people with achieving job satisfaction as I have, and the supportive work environment that Forrest Personnel has created and that I am now able to pass onto the Trolley team”.

Since taking on the role, the rest of the Trolley staff have felt really supported by Ben.

When asked if he had any tips for other people facing challenges seeking employment, Ben said, “Don’t give up on your goals, there is many opportunities out there to get help and celebrate the small wins, every step forward is a step in the right direction.”

Tim and Jo Anytime Fitness Rockingham_web

Jo’s Story

Meet Jo.
Jo is a single mum who suffered a serious illness. After her recovery Jo said that she was ready to start work again. Previously Jo had worked in a Bakery and various cleaning roles, however never wanted to go back to cleaning. But when presented with this opportunity she was willing to give it a chance.
Doreen, our Team Leader in the Metro area, attended a BNI (Business Network International) Coastal Rockingham meeting, where one of the employers, Tim from Anytime Fitness Rockingham , asked if Forrest Personnel could recommend someone for a gym cleaning position. Jo immediately came to mind. Despite her initial reluctance to take on another cleaning role, Jo’s motivation to work and her wealth of experience made her a strong candidate. Subsequently, we arranged an interview and a work trial, both of which left Tim impressed, leading to her immediate employment.
Since Jo started cleaning at Anytime Fitness Rockingham, gym members have commented that the gym has never been so clean and have also approached management to tell them how impressed they are with the job Jo is doing.
“I finally have a job where I feel like a staff member. I have been included in staff meetings, staff outings and I get treated with respect. I feel like one of the family,” Jo said, “they are the best employer I have ever known.” As an added bonus, Jo also enjoys the benefit of complimentary gym membership.
Jo is so happy in her role at Anytime Fitness that she would not consider anything else.
Lorraine_Broadwater Fencing (web)

Lorraine’s Story

It’s common for people to face challenges when re-entering the workforce, especially after a long break from employment. A great idea to build confidence is to re-train and upskill. Lorraine did just that. Lorraine’s determination to go back to study and achieve certificates in accounting, bookkeeping, and business administration is truly commendable. However, after obtaining her new qualifications and despite her persistent efforts in applying for numerous job positions, Lorraine did not achieve the success she was hoping for.

Forrest Personnel recognised the need for Lorraine to improve her interview skills and upgrade her resume. With just 3 or 4 tailored training sessions aimed at boosting her self-assurance, Lorraine became well-prepared to re-enter the job market. And, after attending an interview at Broadwater Fencing & Powdercoaters Busselton, Busselton, Lorraine was offered the position of Administrative Officer.

Lorraine’s willingness to learn and develop new skills, along with her perseverance has enabled her to achieve meaningful employment. Congratulations to Lorraine on her successful journey!

The willingness of Broadwater Fencing & Powdercoaters to understand Lorraine’s background and provide her with an opportunity also highlights the importance of compassionate employers.

Michelle_Tronox (web)

Michelle’s Story

Meet Michelle, a participant of Forrest Personnel, Bunbury, who has worked at Tronox for over 20 years. Michelle’s journey at Tronox, started with a work experience opportunity helping in the office.  During this time Michelle’s duties included shredding paperwork and tidying the office.  Forrest Personnel staff supported Michelle by providing on the job support and training until she was capable of completing tasks independently. Michelle’s commitment to her work, led to more responsibilities, and her handling laundry duties too. Today Michelle still helps out with tidying the office and is responsible for washing and drying the sandbags and cleaning the trays. 

Michelle has really enjoyed her employment journey with Tronox and takes great pride in her work. The collaboration between Forrest Personnel and Tronox ensures that Michelle can maintain her well-suited, sustainable, and meaningful employment.

Heather_Hevins Mosaics2

Heather’s Story

Heather discovered that creating mosaic art provided her with a soothing and effective way to manage her ADHD and anxiety. Recognising her deep passion for crafting mosaics, Forrest Personnel were able to assist Heather turn her dream of running her own business while pursuing her artistic love into a reality. After more than a decade dedicated to the world of mosaic art, Heather is now the proud owner of Hevins Mosaics, her own mosaic business. She conducts mosaic workshops in her hometown of Eaton, sharing her expertise and passion with her local community.

Heather said ‘This has been a rewarding experience, from beginners to advanced. I teach cutting, laying & design. My classes are small to provide maximum attention & many students have been coming for months, learning new techniques & challenges. Some students have disabilities, one in particular with MS has improved her fine motor skills & others find my environment, relaxing. This has been a rewarding sea change in my later years & the biggest reward has been helping students discover their artistic side’.

Louise_KFC Bunbury (5)

Louise’s Story

Louise’s journey with Forrest Personnel began over 21 years ago when she came to us for help to find employment. Starting off in work placement, Louise has now been a valued team member of KFC Parks Centre, Bunbury for over 20 years.

Louise really enjoys her job, working on a Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. She is responsible for cleaning the restaurant and often helps in the kitchen with the cheese slices and the potato and gravy. Louise is very well supported by her employer and all the staff at KFC Parks Centre. They often comment it is a delight to have Louise as part of the crew and they go out of their way to make her feel welcome and part of the team.

Forrest Personnel provide weekly support to Louise which also includes supporting Louise to complete safety and hygiene modules required to maintain her employment. 

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Louis’ Story

Meet Louis, one of Forrest Personnel’s NDIS participants.

With the support of the Forrest Personnel’s NDIS Team Louis has been exploring what is meaningful to him. Participating in work experience at Battery All Types, Bunbury, Louis has built confidence within the world of work while gaining valuable skills.

Louis thrives in environments where he has the opportunity to participant in a range of activities and during his time with Battery All Types it has been important to Louis and his team that he develop exposure to a range of duties. Routine is something that is very important to Louis, and this is reflected in his duties, where he has come to know the days of the week by the tasks he completes. Louis shared that one of his proudest moments was when Tony presented him with his ‘official’ Battery All Types shirt.

Louis’ mum, Georgia said. “Louis loves his ‘job’ at Battery All Types.  He is very proud to be working like the rest of us in the family. Tony is so accommodating to him, which is really lovely, and I am so thankful that he has provided Louis with this opportunity to feel just like everyone else.  His confidence has increased so much.

Louis enjoys going to work. He comes home and tells me about his day and seems very happy within himself for the tasks he undertakes while he is there. I always know when it’s the “Busso Order” day as he makes a point of letting me know each Wednesday.

Thank you all for everything you do for my boy.”

With the support of those around him Louis continues to build his independence and is gaining great sense of accomplishment and belonging within his team.

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