Author: Emmalee
Going into work experience, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I had a few nerves and a lot of curiosity, but I was open to learning something new. What I found was a week full of surprises, some things I already enjoyed, others I learned to enjoy, and many that were completely new to me. My placement was at Firefly Bay and Basin, and from the very first day, I felt welcomed and supported.
On Monday, I was introduced, or rather, re-introduced to two of the lovely team members, Tash and Christine. I say re-introduced because I’m already part of the Firefly Youth Crew, and I’ve attended two of their meetings and team-building activities before. So, while the environment wasn’t completely unfamiliar, stepping into a more professional role gave me a whole new perspective on how things operate behind the scenes. Tash and Christine were both incredibly kind and helpful, making it easy for me to settle in and feel like part of the team.
Throughout the first day, I learned about the many different services that fall under the umbrella of Uniting, the organisation that Firefly is a part of. I was surprised to discover just how many programs and support systems they offer to the community. It was even more meaningful to learn that my mum used to work for Uniting, which made me feel even more connected to the work I was doing. It gave me a sense of pride to be contributing, even in a small way, to something that has had a positive impact on people I know.
One of the highlights of the week was attending the Youth Voice group on Thursday. Even though the turnout was smaller than usual, probably because it was the last week of school, the session was still incredibly valuable. Youth Voice is a space where young people can share their thoughts, ideas, and concerns, and it’s clear that it plays an important role in the community. I found it to be both educational and empowering. It’s the kind of group that deserves more recognition and support because it gives young people a real platform to be heard.
On Friday, the final day of my placement, I teamed up with Casey to head out into Huskisson. Our mission was to put up flyers and collect prizes for the Strengthening Communities Alliance survey. It was a fun and productive way to wrap up the week, and it gave me a chance to see how outreach and community engagement actually happen on the ground. It’s one thing to talk about community work in theory, but it’s another to be out there doing it.
Despite the unpredictable weather throughout the week, we pushed through and made the most of every day. There were definitely some challenges, but we persevered and kept a positive attitude. The week was filled with laughter, learning, and even a few too many Tim Tams. I’ll never forget the hilarious interviews we did or the small but meaningful moments that made each day special.
Overall, this work experience has been incredibly eye-opening. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how youth work operates and how much effort goes into supporting young people in the community. I’ve also learned more about myself, what I enjoy, what I’m capable of, and how I can contribute. I’m grateful for the opportunity and for everyone who made this week so memorable. It’s definitely an experience I’ll carry with me into the future.