We’ve all heard the phrase: “I was so impressed, I bought the company.” Now, this is usually the domain of Hollywood celebrities or business tycoons with very deep pockets.
But what about DES participants?
This is the story of OCTEC DES participant Stuart Rhodes – a man who was so impressed …
When Stuart started with OCTEC DES in Taree, on the NSW Mid North Coast, he was experiencing significant mobility issues due to lumbar spasms in his back.
Despite this barrier, he was determined to keep positive and not be restricted by injury.
While receiving treatment, our colleagues arranged for Stuart to obtain RSA and RCG certificates.
They assisted him with interview and work clothing as well as exercises to help build his confidence.
With the support of OCTEC, Stuart was able to secure suitable work with local hospitality providers.
One of these jobs was with a takeaway street food café called Blowfish, on the beach reserve at Old Bar.
He loved his job so much that, when he was able, and the opportunity arose, Stuart bought the business.
Thanks to the support of OCTEC, Stuart is now a business owner, and an employer in his own right.
“I am extremely grateful to OCTEC for all the support I received. None of this was possible without them,” Stuart said.
He looks to OCTEC for assistance when recruiting staff at the café.
If you’re on the NSW Mid North Coast between Taree and Port Macquarie, looking for a good surf and a bite to follow, a great place would be the seaside village of Old Bar.
We recommend visiting Stuart and his team at the Blowfish Café.