From School to the Workshop: Robert Begins His Career with Confidence

Less than a year after finishing Year 12 at Ceduna Area School, Robert May is gaining hands-on experience in the workshop at Qube Bulk, thanks to a pathway built with support from EyrePlus.

Robert finished school in 2025 and connected with EyrePlus soon after to explore his employment options. He already knew which industry he wanted to pursue, having completed school-based work experience with Qube Bulk (formerly Kalari). That placement had given him a clear sense of where he wanted to end up.

Through the Remote Australia Employment Service (RAES), EyrePlus worked alongside Robert to get him ready for employment, helping with his resume, Centrelink engagement, employer connections, and the recruitment process. RAES supports young people across the Far West to build the skills and confidence they need to move into meaningful, local employment.

Turning work experience into an opportunity

Robert’s earlier placement left a lasting impression on more than just him. Workshop and Operations Manager Jordy Grills remembered the attitude and work ethic he’d shown, and arranged an interview.

Qube Bulk then created a Trade Assistant position to bring him into the team, with Robert starting in the role in April 2026.

He’s quickly become a reliable member of the workshop. Working on the heavy vehicle fleet, he’s gaining practical experience across repairs, servicing, and general workshop duties, and has already picked up skills in wheel bearings, brake maintenance, mudguard and vehicle lighting repairs, tyre changes, and general workshop maintenance.

It’s his attitude, as much as his growing technical skills, that has impressed those around him.

“I cannot fault Robert. He’s a good lad, shows a keen interest to learn, is always on time and his attendance is outstanding,” says Jordy. “The whole team appreciates his flexibility and willingness to step in when extra support is needed. We see great potential in Robert’s future and it’s good to have him as part of the team here at Qube Bulk.”

EyrePlus has stayed connected with Robert since he started, including helping with the personal protective equipment and work clothing he needed for the workshop.

Building towards what comes next

Robert’s already looking ahead. He’s working towards his provisional driver’s licence, with a forklift licence next on the list as he keeps building his skills in transport and logistics.

His story shows what’s possible when a pathway builds on a young person’s own interests, experience, and goals. For Robert, that meant going back to an employer he already knew, turning a positive work experience placement into a real job, and proving himself once he got there.

It’s also a strong example of what EyrePlus and RAES can achieve through local partnerships, creating meaningful employment opportunities for young First Nations people across the Far West.

Robert is still at the start of his working life, but he’s already making a strong impression, learning fast, and building towards the future he set his sights on from day one.