Exciting New Employment Opportunity for Local, are-able Echuca

5 January 2021

After spending a few years out of the workforce, Echuca man George Dick was concerned he was too old to find a new job. But after joining Are-able Echuca employment services, George found a new lease of life when he landed a role at Merool on the Murray, a local holiday park.

George’s are-able Employment Consultant knew George, aged in his late 50s, had plenty to offer a workplace. They sat down together and detailed his skills, interests and hobbies. As they got to know George, it was identified that he would be highly suited to a business needing help with gardening and maintenance.

George was encouraged to put his resume forward to Merool on the Murray, which sits on 63 acres of land. are-able contacted Merool and advocated for George’s skills and enthusiasm.

George is responsible for the gardens, mowing the laws, watering, and maintenance around the park, including cleaning the pool.

“Every time I visit George at work, he drives me around in the buggies and updates me on all of his projects, lawn and garden progress. He takes great pride in his work and he’s doing a wonderful job,” said Tiffany Amery, are-able Employment Consultant.

Merool on the Murray’s previous owner Trent Whiston was impressed with George’s work. During one busy Southern 80 event weekend, George stepped up his workload, driving the courtesy bus. Trent noticed George’s fascination with the helicopter rides, and surprised George with a joy-flight at end of the weekend as a thank you for all of his hard work. George appreciated Trent’s support as an employer.

“I had the best time and was blown away that Trent would do that for me!” said George.

Merool Holiday Park was recently purchased by Tasman Tourism. Jim and Karyn Hoare are the new managers and are looking forward to working with George as part of the established team.

“George is always punctual, honest, and hardworking.” Jim is enjoying the ease of working with George who when given tasks to do can be relied on to go off for the day to get them all done.

Tiffany is pleased the role has been successful for George and Merool on the Murray.

“He seems much happier and has more self-assurance. I love that through this role George has been able to understand the value that he has to offer and confidence in his ability,” she said.

For George, the job has changed his life. He’s been able to regain financial independence and has a feeling of purpose and a new group of people to socialise with.

“It feels good to be employed,” he said.