A chance does the job
Bakery’s work opportunity philosophy proves far from flaky
PETER Farrer always knew he would struggle to find a job.
But a Geelong bakery-cafe is providing Mr Farrer and many others with employment opportunities they may not otherwise get.
P&G Bakery Cafe is like any other cafe except many of its workers have disabilities.
“I have learnt so much over the last year,” Mr Farrer said.
“When I first started I was terrible at cooking and I wasn’t in a good mood, but now I’ve changed after getting this job.
“It’s hard for me to find a job with my learning difficulties but it’s easier here because I’m taught slowly.”
The cafe was taken over four years ago by baker Paul Field, who realised he could use the business to train and employ young people with disabilities.
Mr Field found inspiration in creating a tailored training program after his sister with Down syndrome was rejected from a volunteering job.
When Mr Field took over as manager of the Geelong Botanical Gardens Tea House, he saw the opportunity to give his sister some work experience.
“She became involved and her friends from a Down syndrome dance group wanted to join in too and then it just naturally grew and we eventually developed a proper training program,” he said.
Mr Field helps deliver training at P&G Bakery Cafe, the Botanic Gardens Tea House and the Marina View Cafe.
Mr Field’s father, Bill, worked as a teacher for more than 40 years and has enjoyed seeing the business provide opportunities for people who are often disadvantaged and discriminated against in the job market.
“There are a lot of other good programs around and they come from a specific disability standpoint. But this is just a mainstream cafe that employs people with disabilities, so it’s inclusive,” Bill said.
“Back in the 1980s, I was doing research into what happens to people with disabilities when they finish school and it was very depressing. Some got long-term jobs but most were leading very unfulfilling lives.
“But many programs introduced over the years have made employment pathways and that has changed things enormously.”
The cafe receives funding and guidance from the National Disability Insurance Scheme, but gives much more than just a job. It provides lifelong skills and confidence for workers such as Mr Farrer.
“I never thought I was going to drive with my disability, but after working at the bakery for over a year I decided to take the test and now I’m on my green Ps,” Mr Farrer said.
“My mum and dad didn’t think I would pass but I proved them wrong. So, now I’ve got a job and a licence.
“One day I hope to work in a restaurant or have my own little cafe. I’d really like to stay with Paul for as long as I can and my goal is to have proper baker apprenticeship soon.”