Nat’s driving ambition

For the past 15 years, Nat Klein has been an integral member of the Kurrajong Property Services team which is responsible for keeping Kurrajong’s buildings and grounds ship-shape.

“Kurrajong is a bit like extended family. They’ve taught me how to do the mowing, edging, operate the sprinkler system and change tap washers. Working here has helped with my confidence.

“I like working here. For one, I get paid and I’d get bored if I stayed at home!”

After several attempts, earlier this year Nat gained his learner’s licence and is currently learning to drive.

“I wanted to get my licence so I can drive around by myself and if Steve, Thomas and Jim (my supervisors and support workers) want a hand, I can give them a hand.

“And I will be able to go fishing when I want to. Just take myself. It will come in handy.”

In typical fashion, the Kurrajong team is supportive of Nat’s driving ambitions. His supervisor Steve Chapple is proud that Kurrajong’s support with things such as TAFE literacy and numeracy courses, and health and family issues has played a big part in Nat’s professional and personal development over the years.

“For quite a few years we got Nat to go to TAFE, and we spent a bit of time with him on the computer, just doing practise tests for his driver’s licence.

“On a personal level, Nat’s mum recently had a stroke and was in hospital for a few months before going to The Haven. Our InterLink service helped get Nat’s name on the lease, so he is able to still live in the family home. It’s great that Kurrajong can assist in these ways and I know it makes a difference.”

In the time Steve has known Nat he has become more social and talks to people more openly now.

“He’s a good worker. He’s ambitious, keen and he’s motivated all the time.

“He’s also got a great sense of humour and keeps us on our toes. He’s got a story every day and a joke or three!

“He likes to have a bit of fun and I love it. It makes a difference to my day. It makes coming to work fun and, over the years, it makes you feel that you’ve achieved something as well.”

Right now, Nat lives close enough to walk to The Haven to visit his mum but plans to drive there (and everywhere!) once he gets his driver’s licence.