Spencer McNally – A Fresh Start in Baking

Originally booked for 9:30am, Spencer happily accepted an earlier 9:00am appointment and even arrived ahead of schedule. During our initial meeting, I discovered his residential address was in Newborough, approximately fifteen minutes from Morwell. With colleagues PT Bec and SM Matt available in the office, we discussed the option of an internal transfer to better suit his location. However, after building strong rapport during our appointment, Spencer expressed that he was more than willing to travel to Morwell fortnightly to continue working together. This decision reflected the positive connection established from the outset.

As we discussed Spencer’s employment history, his background in baking immediately stood out. Coincidentally, I had recently secured a vacancy at a local pie shop - a role well aligned with his skills and experience. Spencer was eager to be considered, though we did not yet have a current résumé on file. Demonstrating initiative, he emailed it through within half an hour of leaving the office.

After presenting Spencer to the employer in person, she expressed strong interest in offering him a paid work trial. Although another participant was already undertaking a trial, approval was gained from AM Sean to proceed with a second placement. Within days, Spencer commenced his paid work trial.

Early feedback from the employer revealed some external concerns, as Spencer had previously worked at a nearby Coles store and some customers had shared their opinions. However, I encouraged open communication, and Spencer was transparent about his past experiences. The employer chose to form her own judgement based on Spencer’s performance - a decision that soon proved worthwhile.

Over the two-week trial, Spencer demonstrated initiative, enthusiasm and a genuine passion for baking. He assisted with preparing pie fillings, baking cakes, serving customers and consistently sought out additional tasks rather than waiting for instruction. Around this time, the bakery’s existing baker resigned, further highlighting Spencer’s value to the business.

Following his final trial day, the employer made the decision to offer Spencer ongoing employment, commencing immediately. Not only was he offered his benchmark hours, but the employer also committed to training him further in the baking side of the business -creating a pathway for skill development and long-term stability.

When Spencer called to share the news, he was overwhelmed - describing himself as “still in shock” at how quickly everything had progressed. Initially hesitant to apply for Centrelink support through Services Australia, he is now grateful he took that step, as it connected him to the right opportunity at the right time.

A follow-up visit to the workplace confirmed that Spencer was settling in exceptionally well. The employer shared how impressed she was with his work ethic and attitude, and another staff member mentioned she had spoken highly of him and enjoyed working alongside him.

Spencer’s journey is a reminder that with responsiveness, openness and the right support, opportunities can unfold quickly. By advocating for his strengths, facilitating a paid work trial and maintaining strong employer relationships, Sureway Employment and Training was able to help Spencer secure meaningful employment in an industry he genuinely enjoys.