AFTER serving as a Victorian police officer, Steve Owen decided to follow his passion and move to Queensland's Airlie Beach with plans of retirement.
An avid sailor, he enrolled with TAFE to upskill - and it wasn't long before he was approached by Cumberland Charter Yachts at Airlie Beach to take on the role of operations manager.
While it wasn't quite the retirement Steve had envisaged, the value and enjoyment has exceeded his expectations.
The flexibility of his work shifts have enabled him to pursue some of his other passions, including the development of a small sideline business - water sports hire - that compliments his work with Cumberland Charter Yachts.
Steve's is just one success story of the Queensland Tourism Industry Council's Tourism and Hospitality Mature Aged Program, which aims to promote inclusiveness in the workforce.
The project provides opportunities for people aged 55 and over to participate in employment, training, lifelong learning and volunteering opportunities.
The older participants can bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to businesses.
The aim is to place a minimum of 30 mature aged jobseekers with "champion employers" in regions including North Queensland, Central Queensland and Brisbane.
You can find out more on 3236-1445 or email workforcedevelopment@qtic.com.au
