ABC Trailblazer: Eleanor McCormack

When you live in ‘a beautiful slice of the world’ it is hard to stay away.

That was the experience of 21 year-old Trawlwoolway woman, Eleanor McCormack from Ulverstone in northern Tasmania.

After moving to Melbourne in 2018 and completing a Bachelor of Arts degree, working as a volunteer and an intern, Eleanor was homesick and returned to Ulverstone.

Though fortunate to secure employment with the Department of Justice, Eleanor recognised that careers for young people in her region were scarce so she decided to found Locals.

Locals empowers young people to find careers in their home region rather than in a ‘big city’. Through advocacy and business liaison, the project is carving out space for young professionals in Tasmania.

‘The main point behind Locals is that local people should have the opportunity to get local jobs,’ Eleanor said.

‘We see such a huge exodus of regional young people to the mainland when they finish school, and I know that career opportunities play a big part in that.’

In building Locals, Eleanor said she’s been stunned by the support from local businesses and organisations, especially so early on in the process.

‘At this stage I’m still doing a lot of planning and networking, but attending local events and conferences has been awesome for Locals so far. I’ve met some great people who have given me great advice and wisdom to get Locals on the road.’

The idea is also catching on amongst the local youth and young adults as well, particularly those forced to finish degrees through partial attendance on campus or online.

‘I think COVID has made people realise that there are more opportunities to stay locally while you study and work, so they’re now looking for local opportunities rather than to the mainland,’ Eleanor said.

‘It’s hard for young mob especially, when to chase opportunities you have to leave your community and Country, so I think we’re in a great new era where you don’t have to leave.’

Eleanor also has ambitions for young people in regions beyond her own.

‘Locals is very much a passion project at the moment, fuelled by my love for my home region,’ she said.

‘But I’d love to see sister projects pop up around the country, either as an extension of Locals once I’m more established or as similar projects run by other regional young people passionate about their home towns.’

In 10 years’ time, Eleanor wants to see Locals offering careers counselling, student support and scholarships.

‘Personally, I’d love to have some critters and my own place. I’m keen to stay involved with my local community and keep giving back. This is a beautiful slice of the world.’

Is it any wonder that ABC Heywire selected Eleanor as one of their 2022 Trailblazers?