Sandra discovers her dream career path

When Sandra Gillman first joined the Community Development Programme (CDP), she never imagined it would provide her a pathway to find her future career.

Born and raised in Kuranda, Far North Queensland, Sandra was previously employed in areas such as customer service, cleaning and as a cultural dancer. Sandra also spent time as a full-time carer for her grandmother.

In 2015 Sandra, who is partially deaf, started her CDP activities at the Kuranda Amphitheatre refurbishment project with Regional Indigenous Sustainable Enterprise (RISE).  

“Since starting I have developed a variety of skills, such as paving, landscaping, cement mixing and safety awareness” Sandra said.

“But my favourite was learning how to operate and drive big machinery. I’ve now decided that being a machine operator is my dream job, and I’ve just completed a Certificate III in Surface Extraction.”  

“I love working with my team, they make me laugh and I love watching the progress of tasks as they are completed.”

The Kuranda Amphitheatre is a regional, multi-purpose community arts venue located in the village of Kuranda. The amphitheatre was built by the people of Kuranda in 1979 and is still managed by the community. It boasts a long history of arts and cultural activities including festivals, dance and theatre.

In need of refurbishment, RISE approached Kuranda Amphitheatre Society Incorporated with a proposal to rejuvenate the run-down site.

RISE Kuranda Business manager, Ms Suzanne Mutch, said that the popular activity now averages around 40 participants and attracts all age groups.

“Sandra has been committed to the activity from the time it commenced. She began planting the new garden and has progressively learnt more skills to contribute to the refurbishment and share her knowledge with others in the program,” Suzanne said.

Like several of her peers who have gained employment from participating in this activity, Sandra’s own aim is to find a job using the skills she has developed. But Sandra also said that participating at the Kuranda Amphitheatre activity has helped her community.

“Improving the venue will bring more acts and concerts to Kuranda, which will bring in more tourists for local businesses.”

Suzanne Mutch also emphasised the community impact of this CDP activity.

“The pride shown on the faces of the participants is obvious; this project has changed the lives of many of our local youths and elders alike,” Suzanne said.

“Elders have been able to share their skills with the younger generation and at the same time show the love and care of the land and venue.”

For Sandra, the CDP has given her more than a pathway towards her desired future career.

“I have enjoyed the friendships, the company of my team, and the respect of others. I feel like it’s another family for me. I love it there.”