Bathurst resident, Sue Butler, believes it is never too late to reskill to be in a career you love as newly released figures reveal that mature age workers are delaying retirement in the Central West.

TAFE NSW research reveals that by 2021, 8.1% of people aged 70 years and over will remain in the workforce, choosing to reskill or upskill for large employing industries such as hospitality. NSW Government statistics also suggest that demand for skilled hospitality workers is at an all-time high in the Central West with employers identifying hospitality as the most difficult industry for recruitment.

When Ms Butler took a voluntary redundancy from her long-term employment as a leading hand at a factory, she thought she would never be able to find a job. After completing a TAFE NSW Certificate IV in Catering Operations and a Diploma in Hospitality, she now has the skills to continue her working life and pursue the employment opportunities in the region.

“I really enjoy talking to people and have worked in food vans at local events, so that’s why I chose to study courses in hospitality at TAFE NSW Bathurst,” Ms Butler said.

“I was surprised by the learning facilities at TAFE NSW and the new skills that I developed through the hands-on experience I was given working in the on-site training restaurant.

“By refreshing my skills in food hygiene and preparation, front of house, point of sale and customer service I was able to secure a full-time job as an assistant cook at Allity Calare Aged Care Orange.

“Studying at TAFE NSW also gave me the confidence and skills to step up and cover the head chef when we needed to serve more than 100 meals, three times per day to residents.”

Allity Calare Aged Care General Manager, Danny Oakenfull, said Sue was an integral part of the hospitality team at Allity Calare.

“The knowledge she gained from her studies at TAFE NSW was readily implemented into the operations of the home and has improved our practice,” Mr Oakenfull said.

TAFE NSW Hospitality Teacher, Robyn Ward, said Sue was a dedicated student who was able to successfully manage study and work at the same time.

“TAFE NSW helped Sue be in control of her journey by enabling her to study when it suited her through flexible training options,” Ms Ward said.

TAFE NSW has a range of hospitality courses available in Bathurst. Visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601 for more information.

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Media Officer, (02) 6338 2509, mobile 0427 901 515.