Being unemployed is hard work for Jamie Maynard and Wayne Robinson.
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And it used to be heartbreaking for the men too before they became volunteers at Thornton-based charity Aussie Care, where they are training to acquire new skills.
Now their self-esteem has risen even though they apply for
countless jobs and mostly don’t even get a phone call back.
“I have had a lot of experience in a range of jobs, including concreting, roofing, bricklaying and driving heavy equipment,” Mr Maynard, 40, from Tarro said.
“But I don’t have qualifications.
“When I was put off work about nine months ago, I felt as if I had been put out of the workforce.
“With no money, there was also no security. I am a single man, but money is still a big problem for everyone who is out of work.”
Mr Maynard has lost count of the number of jobs he has applied for.
“It really hurts when you never get a call back from people,” he said. “I am working for the dole and I believe more training should be available for people.
“Why are they closing down so many TAFE courses now?”
Mr Maynard said he had thought about leaving Tarro and looking for work elsewhere, but could not afford to move.
Wayne Robinson, 35, from Thornton, was a machine operator working at Hamilton a year ago.
“I would be moving up to 380 pallets a day,” he said.
“I was working at Sandvic Mining and Construction for three months, then they let everyone go.
“For about a year now I have been without a job and I wish I had more qualifications.
“I left school at 16 and worked in labouring jobs. But I am hopeful of getting work as a truck driver and if I do, I’ll stay in Thornton.”
