TAFE NSW and The Wests Group Australia (Wests) today announced they have joined forces to deliver a hospitality pre-employment program to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members from across the Hunter.

Aboriginal people from all walks of life attended the information and interview sessions held this morning at Marble Bar, Wests New Lambton, meeting with representatives from the TAFE NSW Aboriginal Engagement unit and Hospitality teaching section plus the Wests New Lambton management team.

18 applicants were successful and will commence the program on 5 August.

They will undertake three weeks of Certificate II in Hospitality studies at TAFE NSW Hamilton and Wests New Lambton then two weeks’ work placement at a Wests venue. This will provide them with the required skills, experience and industry knowledge to be job-ready.

If participants perform well, it may lead to employment opportunities with Wests.

TAFE NSW Aboriginal Engagement Coordinator Daniel Jack said, “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a continuing history of disadvantage in relation to employment that dates back over two centuries.

“Our Hunter-focused pre-employment program will help address this. It will provide those within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community with a genuine opportunity to secure a job with Wests; one of the most reputable providers of entertainment, functions, accommodation, dining and fitness facilities across the region.

“TAFE NSW has handpicked course units that will help successful applicants hit the ground running.

“These include hands-on alcoholic beverage preparation and barista skills plus Responsible Service of Alcohol and Responsible Conduct of Gambling training and more.

“Importantly, Wests is also linking successful program participants with a mentor from their pool of experienced staff. This will maximise participant retention and help ensure they are adequately supported in the workplace.”

Program participant Zayde Davis from Maryland, who is also an NRL School to Work Program participant, said, “This will change my life, it’s a big deal. This is the first time I have been selected for something like this. I will take it one step at a time and see where things lead. I will try my best and hopefully I do well.”

Wests is a Newcastle owned and operated not-for-profit membership-based organisation with a portfolio including registered clubs Wests New Lambton, Wests New Lambton Bowling Club, Wests Mayfield, Wests City, Wests Nelson Bay and Wests Cardiff.

Australia’s largest training provider, TAFE NSW offers over 1200 courses, from certificates to degrees. Many can be studied online via TAFE Digital, when and where it suits students. Visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601.