The NSW Nationals in the state government have allocated Crown land in Dubbo to a not-for-profit organisation that supports the health and mental wellbeing of regional tradespeople.
Nationals Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders said Tradies In Sight, founded by Bruno Efoti, has been appointed as manager of a 1,085 square-metre reserve in Welchman Street, which was formerly used as a Girl Guides hall.
“Tradies In Sight is a grassroots organisation that supports regional tradies by hosting events and encouraging them to talk about issues they are facing, and then connecting them to services if needed,” Mr Saunders said.
“Bruno does amazing work in the community but needed somewhere to call home, where people knew they could come and have a chat or take part in one of the many events he holds with local tradies.”
Nationals Property Minister Melinda Pavey said she supported the allocation of the site to Tradies In Sight.
“This reserve will provide an operating base and workshop where Tradies In Sight can meet with tradespeople, and also provide mentoring and coaching for young people interested in pursuing a trade,” she said.
Mr Efoti said many tradies struggle with business and personal pressures, particularly in times like COVID, and many bottle it up inside.
A former carpenter, he founded the organisation after seeing the impact of unaddressed issues on fellow tradies.
“Tradies work long hours on physically demanding tasks and have to navigate a range of business and personal issues, but mental health is not often talked about due to a “you’ll be right” attitude,” Mr Efoti said.
“There is a stereotype that if you work in trades you always need to be tough and unemotional but that’s not realistic. Looking after your mental and emotional health, as well as physical health, is key to doing your job well and living a good life.”
“We’re doing a lot of work in Dubbo and outreaching to Orange, Parkes and Mudgee. We’re also getting interest from Walgett, Coonamble, Brewarrina and Bourke.”
To find out more visit https://tradiesinsight.support/
