Work for Dole cafe project ends

The Café Umina Beach Work for the Dole Project is now completed.
The project was an initiative of the Commonwealth Government, administered by the Department of Employment, Workplace Relations and Small Business, and sponsored by local employment, training and recruitment provider ET Australia.
The project has been conducted at Café Umina Beach and Information Centre, located behind the Library in Bullion St, Umina.
The Café and Information Centre is managed by ET Australia, staffed by volunteers, and provides a valuable service to Peninsula residents.
Participants in the Work for the Dole project have been working in the Café since October 1999 and have received ongoing support and training from ET Australia staff members and volunteers.
All of the participants in the project have developed a strong sense of ownership in the Café with many volunteering to work in the Café outside their required Work for the Dole obligation.
They have even volunteered to work on Saturdays. On one Saturday a few months ago, they turned up with paint brushes in hand and helped repaint the inside of the Café.
Several participants have not missed a single day throughout the project, an indication of their commitment and underlying strong work ethic.
Ten of the participants have successfully completed a Hospitality Training course provided by ET Australia as part of the project.
This training is nationally recognised and accredited and has provided the participants with the knowledge and skills to gain better employment opportunities.
Several participants have already gained part-time employment and one participant has progressed to full-time training.
The participants received their Statements of Attainment on August 11 from the Member for Robertson, Mr Jim Lloyd, and Certificates of Attendance from Gosford mayor Cr Chris Holstein.
The presentation was held at the Café Umina Beach and Information Centre and was catered for by participants.