Jobbortunities ‘off to cracker of a start’

BALCLUTHA

‘‘IT’S off to a cracker of a start.’’

Otago employers started matching faces to places in Balclutha yesterday afternoon, in what was the first of an initial three ‘‘Jobbortunities’’ speeddatingstyle employment fairs.

The events have been organised by the Clutha District Council under the $12.5 million Ministry of Social Developmentfunded Mayors’ Task Force for

Jobs Community

Recovery Programme.

Clutha Mayor Bryan

Cadogan was in ebullient mood at the inaugural event yesterday.

‘‘It’s been humbling to see the support of Otago employers for this initiative, and we’re ecstatic to see such a thronging turnout today.

‘‘It’s off to a cracker of a start.’’

Balclutha jobseeker Andrea Shore said the event was timely.

‘‘I was a dairy farm owner until a change of circumstances recently, so today I’m looking for as many opportunities as possible.

‘‘It’s an outstanding initiative given the current situation for lots of people in Otago.’’

Jobbortunities arrives in Dunedin today for a special studentfocused event.

Event coordinator Ruth Carraway said employers from the horticulture and viticulture sectors were seeking summer workers keen to help with the Central Otago harvest.

‘‘Although it’s mainly for students seeking summer work, our employers are happy to hear from anyone who’s fit, willing and able,’’ she said.

The event will take place at the University of Otago Business School in Union St East, from 1pm to 3pm.

Jobbortunities travels to Queenstown next Saturday, October 10.

Ms Carraway said her team had identified more than 7000 jobs throughout Otago for those seeking new or additional work.

The event will take place at Queenstown’s Memorial Centre, from 10am to 3pm.

PHOTO: RICHARD DAVISON On the job . . . Hosting Jobbortunities’ inaugural speeddating employment event at Balclutha's Cross Recreation Centre yesterday afternoon are (from left) Mel Warhurst, Ruth Carraway, Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan and Justine Barrie.