ASA and Bamara Partner to strengthen support for First Nations Apprentices and Trainees in NSW
This partnership strengthens our commitment to providing effective, trusted, and culturally safe support for apprentices,
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For Darren, each day begins with purpose.
A proud Wiradjuri man, born in Wellington, Darren spent most of his life in South Western Sydney before settling in Dubbo 15 years ago.
He built his strong work ethic as an apprentice printer, which launched a career in the printing industry lasting over 20 years, and he spent a decade working on the rail lines.
“I would start at 6 in the morning and still be in a sweat at knockoff time. You just keep going,” says Darren.
Darren is versatile in his roles at Bamara, which is all about creating breakthroughs and making a meaningful impact on people’s lives, including our participants, their families, and the broader community.
As our Senior Disability Support Worker, he dedicates his time to empowering participants through our NDIS Disability Support Services and building and maintaining community ties across Dubbo, Wellington, and surrounding communities.
He also serves as our National Indigenous Community Liaison Officer, promoting understanding, building relationships, and facilitating communication and support for First Nations people and organisations in our community, ensuring that our services are culturally responsive and effectively meet their needs.
His approach is grounded in trust, and understanding, with a profound connection to the local community, traits he learned from his mother, who worked in the kitchen at a local nursing home in Wellington.
It’s those memories that Darren believes led him into the line of work he excels in today.
“I have found my calling working with people with disability,” says Darren.
“I love seeing people smile, feeling happy, and being safe, like my mum’s work.
“She found joy in her work, creating wonderful memories with those she nurtured and cared for.”
“It’s also all about knocking on doors, having a yarn, and being present, to show that we’re here to help.”
During a typical week, Darren spends time in the community, connecting with local organisations while promoting the range of supports that Bamara offers through NDIS Disability Support Services.
Darren’s face lights up when sharing his experiences in the Hub, where he guides participants in exploring their goals and interests.
His involvement focuses on boosting social engagement, enhancing independence, and improving physical abilities.
He actively participates in capacity-building activities at the Hub, lending a hand wherever needed.
These activities include the opportunities for participants to whip up sweet and tasty treats through cooking classes, develop effective strategies to manage and prep a weekly budget, and ignite the burners for the popular Friday arvo BBQ that everyone looks forward to.
“For me it’s massive to work with community, and give participants skills and access to local opportunities, and the support they need,” says Darren.
Darren’s infectious smile and warm personality make him a natural fit when teaming up with our participants.
Whether it’s a stroll to the park, catching the bus into town, or heading out to shop for groceries and pack a trolley, his positive energy makes every occasion not only productive but also enjoyable and memorable.
He also plays a vital role in organising excursions, connecting participants with local organisations by attending and participating in events that are designed to be culturally responsive and inclusive.
He ensures our participants are safe and valued and enjoy their time together in a warm and welcoming space, inspiring them to explore new experiences and build lasting relationships.
“I love my job, coming in to work, and seeing our participants smile,” says Darren.
“It’s good for mob to be working in the disability industry, and it has made me a better person.”
Bamara is a registered provider of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). We have an experienced local team, who know the area, and will strive to assist you in reaching your goals, whether they are big or small.
Learn more about which of our services and programs might be a good fit for your lifestyle.