Andrew talks about having to change job direction to find work, photo of him looking at the camera
“Breaking into a New Job Market: Andrew’s Story of Challenges and Success”

Thanks for chatting with me Andrew, can you tell me a little about how you came to TURSA in Coffs Harbour? 

“I relocated from Molong near Orange to Coffs Harbour.  It was some time ago when I joined TURSA. Finding work in Coffs Harbour was challenging for me. Initially I wanted to find a sales job while I got on my feet, but my background is in computers and IT. I used to run my own computer business and had received training in the field, but technology was advancing so quickly that I was struggling to keep up. Despite being surrounded by computer shops, most of them were family-owned businesses, making it difficult for me to secure employment.  I found that getting a job in IT in the area required the right connections.  It was nothing but IT for me from school onwards so going there and seeing all the computer shops and then realising I needed to be a family member to get in was disheartening.   The other challenge I found was that technology was moving so fast and not being in a job I could not maintain my industry standards.  I did a few short jobs but really found working in IT that it was better working for myself.  I could manage myself a lot better and did not have a boss telling me to do things that a customer would not like or appreciate. So, in that respect I am glad I am currently out” 

Can you tell me a little about what you have done in conjunction with TURSA to secure employment here in Coffs Harbour?  

TURSA assisted me with getting my RSA certificate to open further options for work.  I did spend some time serving drinks but found it wasn’t really my thing.   

Tursa assisted me to purchase new clothes and helped with petrol for the first week after I transitioned into a cleaning role which was a significant help. My current role I find I have been loving it and found a job that I enjoy. 

What are your plans for the future.  Now that you are working has that got you thinking about what doors may open? 

I think eventually I’d like to start my business again.  There are some ongoing issues with my website that will be resolved next year.  I want to get that all started again but this time I want to approach it differently and be more involved. I would be keen to see if there is any more support, I can get through TURSA so that I can build it up. Because I was a one-person business, I really want to get more people in to help me and to build up more business. 

But for now, I am working for a business that is appreciative, great communicators and happy to praise a job well done which makes it a great place to work. 

Andrew – Participant Coffs Harbour 
“Supporting a Job Search: Terrie’s Strategies for Helping Andrew Find Work”

Hi Terrie.  Can you tell me a little about Andrew and what has been achieved while he has been getting assistance from you at TURSA? 

“Andrew had previously worked with us when we were Job Network and had completed the NEIS program he became self-employed, but his business took a hit when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. He returned to us for support”.   

So when Andrew returned and you realised his business was not going to sustain him, how did you approach the new challenge he was facing? 

“He has a background in computer work but this time around he decided not to look for work in IT as it had proven to be too difficult. We were determined to help him find a job that would fit his current needs.  The first opportunity was a job at Club 300, but he needed an RSA which we organised. But unfortunately, that job was filled before he was able to secure it.  We then found him a role in office cleaning, however that job was not really a good match, so we got him another job with a different cleaning company which is what he is currently doing now.” 

That is a really big change from his skillset, how is he finding doing a totally different role especially one so physical? 

“Andrew is in his early 40s and realized that he needs to continually update his skills if he wants to stay relevant in his work in IT due to the rapid changes in technology.  Consideration also had to be considered with the type of work he could sustain as he is diabetic, which limits the amount of work he can take on since he may get tired easily. However, he is currently enjoying the job he has, which is great!”

 -Terrie a local Employment Adviser. 

"Success is not always a predetermined destination, but rather a journey of unexpected twists and turns that may lead us to places we never thought we'd go."

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Photo of Terrie - Coffs Harbour Tursa Office

In conclusion, Andrew’s journey to Coffs Harbour was not an easy one. Despite his expertise in his profession, he struggled to secure employment in his field and eventually technology go ahead of him. However, he did not give up and instead found alternative employment with the assistance of Terrie and TURSA that allowed him to refocus and plan. 

Although it was not what he had initially envisioned for himself, Andrew’s new job has brought him a sense of purpose and a renewed passion for his profession. 

Andrew’s resilience and determination have paid off, and he is now in a better position to relaunch his business when the time is right. He has learned the importance of adaptability and the value of keeping an open mind when faced with challenges. 

Coffs Harbour looking back towards the jetty and city

Coffs Harbour is a coastal city located in the Mid-North Coast region of New South Wales, Australia. According to the latest Census in 2021, the population of Coffs Harbour is around 77,000 people. The median age of residents is 43 years, with 49.8% of the population being female and 50.2% male. 

Highlights of Coffs Harbour, NSW:

  1. Natural beauty: Coffs Harbour is known for its stunning natural beauty, with attractions like the Solitary Islands Marine Park, Dorrigo National Park, and the Big Banana.
  2. Beaches: Coffs Harbour has a range of beautiful beaches, including Park Beach, Jetty Beach, and Sawtell Beach.
  3. Food and dining: Coffs Harbour has a thriving food and dining scene, with many seafood restaurants and cafes serving fresh local produce.
  4. Events and festivals: Coffs Harbour hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including the Coffs Harbour Show, the Coffs Coast Food and Wine Festival, and the Bellingen Jazz and Blues Festival.
  5. Sporting facilities: Coffs Harbour has a range of sporting facilities, including the C.ex Coffs International Stadium, which hosts national and international sporting events.
  6. Education: Coffs Harbour has several primary and secondary schools, a TAFE campus and a campus of Southern Cross University.
  7. Healthcare: Coffs Harbour has a range of healthcare services, including the Coffs Harbour Health Campus, a major regional hospital.

Overall, Coffs Harbour offers a great mix of natural beauty, entertainment, and quality of life for its residents and visitors. TURSA is convenently located 144/148 W High St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450