The careers of Kevin, John, Ian, Nicole, Daniel, and Fraser began at the old Endeavour Farm on the outskirts of Home Hill, where they worked on picking and packing vegetables and mangoes. Kevin started working at the farm in 1984, marking the beginning of what would become an extraordinary career. Kevin recalls:
When I used to do the truck driving at the nursery, I would travel everywhere between Ingham and the bush, and even Brisbane. It was a big part of my work; I was the only driver for a while.
As the farm expanded, the team took on new responsibilities, including growing seedlings for local growers, delivering them to markets in Townsville and Ayr, and assembling trailers and flatpack furniture. The farm became known for its reputation in the local community. “I really enjoyed making the wooden stakes and painting them,” Ian said, reflecting on his favorite tasks at the time.
Johnny, who has been working in our social enterprises for 35 years, also fondly remembers those market days. “I enjoyed the nursery and going to the markets – we went twice a week,” Johnny said. Those early roles allowed the team to build valuable skills. Kevin, John, Ian, and Daniel all earned licenses for forklifts and cars. Kevin even gained his truck license and still makes deliveries between Home Hill and Townsville today.
As the years passed, the farm closed, and the team transitioned into new roles at Home Hill before moving in 2023 to the state-of-the-art Ayr social enterprise. Kevin said:
Moving away from the farmland into town was a big change. I used to come in on the bus every day, but moving into town felt like a fresh start.
The change brought new opportunities, and their work diversified. The team has been involved in various tasks, such as processing industrial cleaning cloths, refurbishing headphones for QANTAS, assembling cane bin clips, and sorting archive boxes for document destruction.
Today, their efforts focus on mattress recycling for Burdekin Shire Council and document destruction services. These activities not only contribute to the local economy but also support environmental sustainability, a cause that the team is passionate about.
For the newest team member, Ashleigh, who has been with Endeavour Foundation for two years, the opportunity to learn new skills has been one of the highlights of her role.
Working in Home Hill and cutting the rags was something I really enjoyed.
She is currently working towards earning her forklift and car licenses, and the supportive environment at Ayr social enterprise has helped her to grow professionally.
Other team members have reached notable milestones in their personal development. Daniel, a qualified welder, has completed TAFE certifications in spray painting and panel beating. Kevin, who celebrated 40 years of service in November 2024, has earned certifications in safety, chemical management, and welding, in addition to completing a tractor and implement course at Ag College in Clare. “It’s been a journey of personal and professional growth,” Kevin said.
Kevin’s remarkable 40 years of service were celebrated with a special morning tea in November 2024, attended by his peers and featured in the Home Hill News. Beyond his professional achievements, Kevin fulfilled a personal dream in 2024 when he attended a North Queensland Cowboys National Rugby League (NRL) home game. This milestone reminded him of the importance of a supportive workplace, which has helped him and his workmates achieve both personal and professional goals.
The team at Ayr social enterprise, with 139 years of combined service, represents the impact of Supported Employment. The site is an example of the benefits of teamwork, dedication, and a shared purpose. Nicole, who enjoys vacuuming during her workday, takes pride in contributing to the team’s efforts. “I love being part of the team and helping out,” she said.
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