Jobs can drive change in communities, and Cape York Employment says it is committed to creating pathways for local involvement. This impact is clear in the journey of Lockhart River local, Mr Paddy Hobson.
Mr Hobson recently took on a security role in Lockhart River, one of three locals filling critical positions that reduce the community's reliance on FIFO workers.
Hoping to become a police officer, Mr Hobson initially tried different jobs, including carpentry, but kept returning to his goal of joining the Queensland Police Service.
With CYE's support, he entered the Queensland Police Protective Services Group program, which trains locals as Protective Security Officers.
After five weeks of intensive training at the Queensland Police Academy in Townsville, he graduated, assuming a role focused on school security and student safety in Lockhart River.
Mr Hobson noted the strong support he received from his community.
"Finding out I had heaps of support helped me a lot," he told the Cape York Partnership.
"It wasn't just my mum and dad – the whole community backed me."
CYE assisted Mr Hobson through the application process, helping with paperwork and liaising with the Queensland Police Service.
CYE Lockhart River team leader Ms Maria Zaro highlighted Mr Hobson's suitability for the role.
"I recognised their potential and saw they had the right traits for these roles," Ms Zaro said.
She added that he displayed positive communication skills, including eye contact, facial expressions, and active listening.
"My role in the community is to look after the school and all of the teachers," Mr Hobson said.
He advised others considering a similar path.
"My advice is if you ever get the opportunity to join QPS – do it. If you want to make a difference in your community – do it."
"If you believe in right and wrong – then do it. If you want to keep your community safe – do it."
Mr Hobson also credited CYE's support.
"The biggest win was getting support from Cape York Employment… they told me about this and I said 'yeah okay, I'll do it.'"
