Supported employment offers countless benefits and rewards to people with disability. In this article, we explore some of those positives through an inspiring real-life story.

Nestled on beautiful acreage in Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands, among dirt roads and roaming peacocks, you will discover Mareeba Business Solutions.

It won’t take you long to find Brad, sitting proudly behind the wheel of a stationary forklift.

It’s stationary for the time being, at least…

Supported by his coworkers, family and friends, Brad is taking a pivotal step towards achieving a big goal – obtaining a forklift licence.

Embracing new possibilities

Brad's recent decision to strive towards earning a forklift licence has him buzzing. He can see his future and is embracing new possibilities on the horizon.

"I've been part of Endeavour Foundation for a while, I just wanted to go for it," Brad said.

His goal isn't just to add a new skill to his list; it's about being there for his coworkers, stepping in when they need a helping hand.

Brad is keen to be on site and be the forklift driver at the ready to do the heavy lifting in times of need.

“I like to help the other guys, so if one of our usual forklift drivers got sick I could do it,” he said.

Meaningful employment for people with disability

Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions have been part of the Mareeba community since 1983, providing meaningful supported employment to people with disability in the Tropical North Queensland region.

Brad is one of many people supported at work who embodies a spirit of enthusiasm.

Onsite Production Manager, Sue Wood, proudly describes Brad as a dependable go-to guy on the team.

"Brad is an all-rounder who quickly adapts to new tasks. He’s my eyes and ears on the floor," she said.

"You just ask Brad to do something, and he’ll pick it up straight away."

For Brad and the close-knit team in Mareeba, this is just the beginning. Brad is paving the way for himself and other team members to new and exciting opportunities.

"Once Brad gets his forklift licence, we're hoping we will get the authority for Brad to use our vehicles as a learner driver. So, that'll be exciting,” Sue said.

Looking to undertake supported employment?

Are you feeling inspired by Brad?

Reach your own work goals with the help of supported employment.

At Endeavour Foundation, we offer supported employment via our many established Business Solutions sites – alongside supported hosted employment and mainstream employment options.

Discover a job that’s right for you.

Find out more