When Tony joined the STEPS Work Mates program in Townsville, he brought a genuine commitment to helping young people thrive.
Now a Senior Job Readiness Trainer, Tony supports young participants with a disability and autism as they build confidence, develop their independence and find work that aligns with their goals.
“I’ve got a 22-year-old son with autism,” Tony said.
“Supporting him is what inspired me to pursue this kind of work in the first place.”
A passion for people
Tony previously managed a 2,300-cattle fairy farm in South Australia. After more than a decade in farming, he transitioned into retail as a Buys and Loans Manager at Cash Converters. But something was missing.
He wanted a career with purpose, so—inspired by his son—he pursued a Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021).
In 2021, he and his family moved from South Australia to North Queensland, where they could enjoy the natural beauty and camping spots of Townsville.
While continuing his Individual Support studies with STEPS, Tony stood out for his dedication and instinct to support others.
Before long, he was invited to help launch a new program at STEPS Townsville: Work Mates.
Building something special
When I started here, I had just three participants,” Tony said.
“Now I support seventeen, with three more on a waitlist.”
Tony leads by example, helping each participant grow in their own way and find a role that is meaningful and enjoyable, not just a job to fill time or get by.
He recalls one particularly powerful moment with a Work Mates participant, Camden: “Camden was selectively mute when we started working together. With time and trust, we got him involved in the community,” Tony said.
“Now, he’s working full time. That kind of transformation is why I do this work.”
Into the wild
Outside of work, you’ll find Tony camping, fishing, or tinkering with his trust Hilux.
One of his favourite spots is Cocoa Creek, a national park just twenty-five minutes away from central Townsville.
“Serenity is only twenty minutes away,” Tony said.
More than a job
For Tony, STEPS is more than a workplace. It’s a community.
“The last couple of years have been tough on a personal level, and without the support of the STEPS team, I don’t know where I’d be.”
He hopes to keep growing the program and reach more young people in the region.
“It’s the most rewarding work I’ve ever done,” Tony said.
About STEPS Spotlight
STEPS Spotlight is our way of celebrating the incredible people who make up the STEPS team.
Each month, we share the story of a staff member whose passion, dedication, and unique journey help shape the heart of our organisation.
Stay tuned for more stories from across the STEPS community, or in the meantime, revisit our previous profiles!
