By Lucy Waldron
At this year’s open day, the Warwick Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions site is making waves by not only showcasing the skills and job possibilities for individuals with disabilities but also unveiling a significant new addition to their facility—a $430,000 baler.
This state-of-the-art equipment is set to enhance the site’s operations and further develop the skills of its workers.
Mark Turner, Site Manager for Warwick Business Solutions, highlighted the importance of these showcases in demonstrating the site’s capabilities to the public.
“We want to show locals who may have a disability the possibilities and how, with the right support and training, they too can achieve anything,” Mr Turner said.
The Endeavour Foundation, a national disability service provider, employs approximately 1,760 people with disabilities across its social enterprise network. In Warwick alone, the foundation employs 37 people with disabilities alongside 12 staff members—a number they are keen to expand.
“Our site covers a wide range of jobs, including sorting paper along a production line, recycling cardboard and plastic, processing e-waste for electrical goods, and assisting at the Warwick Recycle Shop with donations and register duties,” Mr Turner said.
The Business Solutions site provides vital recycling services to over 100 local businesses, processing an impressive 105 tons of cardboard, 10 tons of plastic, 4 tons of e-waste, and 2.5 tons of paper each month.
Mr Turner expressed excitement about the recent investment in the automated baler, a towering machine that will compact and strap cardboard, significantly boosting productivity and opening up new work opportunities for the team, such as forklift driving.
Local worker Cory Hulme, who joined the site in March, has quickly adapted to his role, including mastering the new baler.
“So far, I’ve realised working here is entertaining, the company of people is awesome, and you certainly feel comfortable. I don’t feel stressed, which is great,” Mr Hulme said.
“The baler is massive and it’s going to help us in a big way in productivity.
“My goal is to gain my forklift ticket, maybe move into trucks, and ultimately become a Production Team Leader in Open Employment here at the site.”
Mr Turner encouraged individuals with disabilities seeking employment or businesses looking for solutions to reach out, emphasising the site’s ability to help.
The Warwick Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions site is not only advancing in technology but also in its mission to provide meaningful work opportunities for people with disabilities, fostering an inclusive and supportive community.
