Daniel’s Majkic for Hunter New England Health
Equal Employment Opportunity Co-ordinator for Hunter New England Health Emma Davies is passionate about providing career opportunities for employees with a disability.
“Our staff are very much an integral part of the wider community. Out of our 14,500 staff, over 400 have a disability,” Ms Davies said.
“We have a wonderful group of dedicated staff. They want to work, they are loyal and generally excel in their chosen vocation.”
Daniel Majkic, a 19 year old apprentice plumber with Hunter New England Health is a good example of this positive work ethic.
“I don’t mind talking about my disability,” Daniel said.
“I knew when I was at school that I did not want a career where I sit in an office. I was pretty good with my hands with wood work and doing creative subjects.
“Things did not fall into place for me. I had to take opportunities as they arose. I knew I just wanted to do a trade and I was going to find out which one. I did work experience with a chef at Wingham RSL for two weeks and he had great advice for me about the life I would have in hospitality,” he said.
“I decided you have to be comfortable doing what appeals to you and take pride in your work. If you do not enjoy it, if you don’t have an interest it, then shows in your work or your business,” Daniel said.
While Daniel was still at Wingham Secondary College, he undertook after-school work with Bunnings. This work experience exposed Daniel to a variety of trades and contacts within the industry.
“After a while I got to know the tradesmen who came in every day and I just asked if I could do work experience with them. That’s how I got work experience with a builder, doing carpentry and shop fitting,” Daniel said.
“My dad wouldn’t let me leave school until I had a job, so when we found the advertisement for a plumbing apprenticeship with Hunter New England Health, I applied straight away.
“Plumbing work at the hospital is different from other trades because it is inside and more maintenance. I learn a lot of different things that interconnect with the job so I understand more.
“It’s unusual to find an employer who advertises that they will put people on with a disability. It’s very supportive here,” he said.
Media note: A photograph of Daniel at work is attached in .jpg format for your use.
Contact: Nicole Fuller
Phone: (02) 6767 7136