On Tuesday 19 November 2024, Queensland Training and Employment Services (QTES), in collaboration with Multicultural Mailer Inc, successfully hosted the much-anticipated Bunnings Job Ready Tour.
This initiative, part of the government-funded Job Ready Program, marked a significant milestone in bridging the gap between community members and employment opportunities in Queensland.
The event was attended by 120 participants, all eager to gain insights and skills to secure employment with Bunnings, a leader in Australia’s retail and home improvement sector.
A well-structured day of learning and interaction
The day commenced at the Australian Centre for Unity (Slack Creek Mosque), which served as the meeting point and the hub for the initial session then advanced the tour to Bunnings.
The event began with an engaging presentation by Dr Zakaria Amin, focusing on crafting successful job applications for Bunnings. This session set the tone for the day, providing participants with the foundational knowledge needed for their journey into the workforce.
Participants were then divided into five color-coded groups, ensuring an organized and personalized experience throughout the event. Each group embarked on a guided tour of the Bunnings Underwood store, offering an inside look into the operational intricacies of the business.
This hands-on experience was an eye-opener for many, showcasing the vast opportunities available within the organization.
Community spirit and generous hospitality
The Bunnings team went above and beyond, providing complimentary coffee and a sausage sizzle, adding a warm and inviting touch to the day.
Participants not only gained valuable knowledge but also experienced Bunnings’ culture of generosity and community engagement.
Mock interviews and networking opportunities
A highlight of the day was the mock interviews conducted by Bunnings HR professionals, which provided participants with critical feedback and interview strategies. These practical sessions helped instill confidence and offered participants a glimpse into the recruitment process, making them better prepared for real-world opportunities.
Acknowledgment of support
The success of the Bunnings Job Ready Tour would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of numerous stakeholders.
The presence and support of Paul Bailey (Logan Council), Simon Nicholls, Matthew Perry (Workforce Australia Local Jobs), Deanne McInally, Amanda Jones, Sky and David Linnegar (Department of Trade, Employment and Training), and Shane Snelson (Your Town) were instrumental in ensuring the event’s impact.
Special thanks are also due to Kath Joynt and the entire Bunnings Underwood team, whose commitment to community building shone through every aspect of the event.
Slack Creek Mosque: A pillar of unity
The Slack Creek Mosque, also known as the Australian Centre for Unity, played a pivotal role in the success of the Bunnings Job Ready Tour.
Serving as the starting point for the event, the mosque showcased its broader role in the community—a role that extends far beyond being a place of worship.
Participants gathered at the mosque for the initial briefing and a comprehensive session on job application strategies, demonstrating the mosque’s commitment to empowering individuals in practical and transformative ways.
The mosque’s contribution to society is multi-faceted, making it a cornerstone of support for many communities, particularly for migrants and refugees.
Through initiatives like these, the Slack Creek Mosque has become a hub of empowerment, helping individuals build brighter futures and fostering a sense of inclusivity and belonging.
A broader contribution beyond worship
While its spiritual role remains significant, the Slack Creek Mosque has continuously redefined its identity as a centre for societal upliftment. Its efforts are aimed at not just addressing spiritual needs, but also tackling real-world challenges like unemployment, skills development, and job readiness. By hosting events such as the Bunnings Job Ready Tour, the mosque:
- Provides a safe and inclusive space for community events and training sessions.
- Equips individuals with practical skills, offering guidance on job applications, resume building, and interview techniques.
- Facilitates partnerships with local businesses, government entities, and organizations, thereby creating direct pathways to employment.
- Encourages confidence and independence, enabling individuals to gain control of their lives through meaningful opportunities.
Supporting job seekers and building confidence
This recent initiative has reinforced the mosque’s role as an active contributor to employment solutions in the community. Participants have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, commending the Slack Creek Mosque for offering a welcoming environment and indispensable resources to help them succeed.
These testimonials highlight the mosque’s commitment to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background, has access to opportunities to thrive.
Bridging gaps and building unity
The Slack Creek Mosque also acts as a bridge, fostering unity across diverse cultures and groups. Its collaboration with organizations like QTES and Multicultural Mailer Inc highlights the power of teamwork in addressing societal challenges.
By hosting events that blend cultural inclusivity with practical training, the mosque reaffirms its dedication to a strong, cohesive, and self-sufficient community.
A testament to all-Australian causes
The mosque’s involvement in the Bunnings Job Ready Tour was a testimony to its unwavering dedication to all-Australian causes. It demonstrated how faith-based organizations can play a vital role in addressing issues that transcend religious boundaries—like unemployment, skill-building, and economic empowerment. The mosque is a true example of how community-driven efforts can have a transformative impact on individuals and families.
Job Ready Program: Driving employment in Queensland
The Job Ready Program is a government-funded initiative designed to prepare individuals for the workforce through targeted training, career readiness programs, and employment pathways. Events like the Bunnings Job Ready Tour are key examples of how the program delivers tangible results by connecting job seekers with employers and equipping them with essential skills.
Gratitude to the organizing teams
The backbone of this successful event was the collective effort of the QTES and Multicultural Mailer Inc teams, whose dedication ensured a seamless experience for all attendees. Their work continues to inspire and uplift communities across Queensland.
Feedback from the participants
The participants were highly appreciative of the event’s insightful approach to job opportunities. A few notable comments include:
- “Loved the tour, very knowledgeable, and interesting to see the aspects of how Bunnings runs its business behind the scenes,” shared Christine Rowe, reflecting the value of uncovering operational insights.
- Amadu Barry expressed his motivation by stating, “The knowledge motivates me to work. The customer scenery is the best.”
- Lisa Penfold appreciated the personalized guidance, saying, “Getting to know exactly what Bunnings looks for in a person for each individual position. Awesome staff, awesome job opportunities, and would love to work here.”
- Another participant, Kaylan Melhuish, commented, “The way it was explained how you can learn other trades while being in another one was fantastic. I loved the way the tour was conducted and explained to cover all bases.”
- Tony Beav summarized his experience as “Informative, not just ‘a red shirt.’ It was a very well-done tour with accurate information.”
These reflections underscore the event’s success in not only showcasing career paths but also instilling a sense of excitement and purpose among participants. It’s clear that initiatives like this contribute significantly to building confidence and fostering community-driven aspirations.
Conclusion
The Bunnings Job Ready Tour was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential of every individual when provided with the right guidance and opportunities. Participants left not only with new skills but also with renewed hope and determination to succeed in their career aspirations.
For more updates on upcoming Job Ready initiatives, contact 0424 150 710 or email contact.qtes@gmail.com.
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