Katherine and Thomas may be new to the Launceston Kitchen Centre family, but already they are proving invaluable members of the team.

“Having the guys here has been very beneficial to the company,” said supervisor Graeme Rangi-Clark.

“Katherine has been assisting with production work, and Thomas is involved in some cleaning duties. These tasks are greatly valued by the business, as it means we can get the apprentices out on the tools.”

For Katherine, this is the first time an employer has given her an opportunity.

“I feel good about being given the opportunity to work,” said Katherine, who has Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy.

“I wake up excited to come to work. EPIC helped me to learn my job and have assisted me with meeting new people.”

Thomas has spent a long time doing work placements and was delighted to secure his first paid position.

“It feels good having a job, much better than all the work experiences I was doing,” said Thomas.

“Having a job gets me out of the house and off the Xbox, and I’ve made new friends like Graeme.”

Graeme is pleased with the duo’s work ethic and eagerness to complete tasks. He says they have quickly become a vital component of the team, boosting the spirits of those around them.

“They have integrated well, both are very friendly and like to have a laugh,” said Graeme.

“They have great enthusiasm for their tasks, are focused and always on the go. Both Thomas and Katherine have had a positive effect on the workplace.”

Graeme extends his thanks to our team at EPIC, who he says have made the transition simple for both employer and employees.

“Both Katherine and Thomas have completed inductions for safety to the required standard and equal to other employees,” said Graeme.

“The assistance from EPIC has been great; once the systems are set up and in place, it all works smoothly.”