After 10 years working in hospitality Adrian Hewitt knew it was time to get out of the kitchen. “It was still a passion but I was working six and seven days a week and it was time to change direction,” he said.
“I’d always been interested in horticulture and the natural environment – I’d done some work with The Wilderness Society and volunteered with Greenpeace. I completed a Certificate II in Horticulture in Brisbane a couple of years ago.”
Adrian started with Glen Eira City Council in May 2007 and in 2008, began studying towards a Certificate III in Horticulture. As a mature age student, Adrian found the traineeship program provided a great balance with the on the job work.
“One day a week at school really breaks up the working week,” he said.
The study obviously suits Adrian as he was awarded Outstanding Student of the Year 2008 from Holmesglen TAFE.
His preferred subjects relate to plant identification, but he finds all the biology and botany subjects interesting.
“The scientific side of it is great, but we also learn about the hands on aspects of running a business, doing quotes and so on,” he said.
“Working for Council is great because I don’t have to worry about getting stuck doing paperwork all day. I also have the opportunity to get the tickets for a whole range of skills through Council – so far I’ve completed a chainsaw course, safe handling of hazardous materials and I have a medium rigid truck licence.
“I get to try a broad range of jobs and move around to different crews according to the season. The past couple of winters I’ve been with the landscape crew and also the tree crew, doing the street trees – pruning and removal – up in the cherry picker.
“Last summer I was with the turf crew, curating the wickets. I love it, you really have to be on the ball, it’s a tight ship – predicting the weather, working under pressure. I’ve been told I’m a natural curator!”
The efforts of the turf crew were rewarded last summer when they were scored number one at Caulfield and number four at Morley, according to the cricket umpires who rate the quality of all the wickets in the sub districts.
Adrian is a shining example of how Council’s commitment to traineeships can help people create a future for themselves. This is increasingly important in the current downturn in the global economy and employment environment.
“Add to this the skills shortage we are facing in Australia and it becomes crucial for people to keep learning new skills,” said Director Assets and Facilities Peter Waite. “It is particularly relevant for young people as they are trying to start their careers in what is a very tight labour market.”
Glen Eira City Council employs students on internships in engineering, public health and town planning, to undertake specific projects.
“These placements often lead to further employment once they’ve finished their studies,” said Director Community Services Peter Jones. “We also offer traineeships throughout the organisation in Aged Care, Home and Community Care (HACC), Parks and Gardens, Animal Management and Planning.
“All Civic Compliance officers have undertaken or are currently completing a Certificate IV in Animal Management and Local Government.”
Adrian is certainly keen to work towards more qualifications and expand his skills.
“The opportunity to do training is terrific and as a mature age student you have the chance to see the practical application of what you’re learning,” Adrian said. “I’m definitely keen to keep studying.”
