After joining Bama Services 18-year-old labourer Harry has “never had a bad day” at the office, quoting the work environment, workmates and culture as major factors towards his eagerness to get out of bed for work everyday.
Working with the Garden Maintenance team, he spends his days outdoors maintaining gardens by sweeping, hedging, trimming trees and operating a range of machinery across large council sites, including parks and gardens and roads from Smithfield to Palm Cove, among other areas across Cairns. While Harry had some experience with other industries, including carpentry, he had never worked in landscaping before. He said the structured, professional environment at Bama Services helped him adjust quickly. “You’ve got early starts, you’ve got to be prepared, there’s a lot of safety involved,” he said. “Bama is the best place to learn.”
Harry values the positive culture at Bama Services, saying it is the best work environment he has experienced. “I can come in and be happy and be myself,” he said. “I’ve never had a bad day here.” He believes the pace of the work, especially on large sites, helps new workers build resilience, confidence and a strong work ethic.
All these aspects combine to provide the perfect working environment and according to Harry, the perfect first job.
Since starting, Harry has learned new skills in landscape maintenance, machine operation and workplace safety. He is excited to continue developing his skills and Bama is prepared to support him every step of the way. “I’d like to get licences like a HR licence when I can,” he said. “It just shows to an employer that you have it and that you can do the work and stick to something.”
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