Brad
It’s more than just food according to Brad.

It’s about bringing people together, offering suitable food choices in restaurants for people from different cultures, and to open our eyes to the wonderful differences in food from all over the world.

Bradley’s story is one to admire. Diagnosed with ADD when he was 3 years old, Bradley was only made aware of his condition and subsequent learning difficulty when he was 16. He was enrolled into Mildura Specialist School where he completed his year 12 equivalent through the VCAL program.

Since finishing school, Brad has enrolled in Certificate II in Hospitality (Kitchen Operations). Chances for Children assisted Brad in the purchase of a lap top computer to assist with his studies and a much needed knife set to continue his training.

Brad keeps himself busy by coaching women’s soccer through the Nichols Point Soccer Club. Once an avid player, a knee injury has forced Brad off the field.

Brad is also a volunteer at the East End Community House, mentoring younger children through sports, homework and cooking. Brad hopes to this year take over one of the healthy eating cooking classes to teach the importance of eating well.

In recent months, Brad completed 2 weeks work placement at the Grand Hotel and Brewery, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Brad hopes to be working in a kitchen of a local restaurant in the future.

Chances wishes Brad all the best for his future!!


Megan
Megan is currently studying her fourth year of Veterinary Science at Melbourne University.
In a recent email to Chances, Megan provided us with an insight into her busy schedule!

“The first part of this year was extremely busy, but rewarding. I completed my third year practical placement within the Werribee Vet Clinic, where I was given lots of responsibility with the patients. With a very full timetable, I spent many weekends at the clinic caring for patients and observing surgeries.

During this second semester, I have four practical placements for 3 weeks each. We receive feedback from the placements and the end of the semester, and also have to complete a series of oral examinations on each species of animal. I will be undertaking one placement with the University, and the other three at clinics in and around country Victoria.

After completing my study this year, I plan to work in mixed practice next year, and hopefully return to rural Victoria.”


Gerard
One of the many challenges tertiary students face in making the transition from life as a university student to life in paid employment is gaining real work place experience. Chances, through Industry Based Mentoring, hopes to make this transition easier for students who are working towards career goals.

While theory is vitally important in learning, practical workplace skills are also essential for a young person to enter the workplace with confidence and to be work ready.

Gerard who is in his final semester of Building Design & Technology at Holmesglen TAFE in Melbourne recently spent two weeks at Jacan in Mildura under the expert guidance of Larry and his team. During his time at Jacan, Gerard was involved in a variety of drafting tasks and experienced the challenges and rewards of working with an expert team in a professional environment.

Gerard is now familiar with the type of professional career opportunities available to him in his home town.

Industry based mentoring works well for the student, the employer and the community. It is hoped that some of the young graduates Chances supports may consider returning to the Mallee to pursue their career of choice.