Health Report

One of the many amazing return to work journeys shared through the Awards is that of Gary Watson, who turned his life around after an injury with the help of Return to work assist.

 

Gary had been an overseer on cattle properties for 20 years, and sustained serious injuries when a horse he was breaking reared and fell on him. Initially misdiagnosed and sent home without treatment, he continued on for three months with a dislocated shoulder and two torn rotator cuffs.

 

Seeking a second opinion, Gary finally got the surgery he needed. However, he was unable to return to his previous role on the cattle property and was forced to move to Brisbane, away from the country life that he loved.

 

"I didn't want to go on a pension, or be put out to pasture. I was determined I was going to get some kind of employment. I didn't care if I was folding paper - just give me something to do. I didn't want to be useless or just fade away." Gary says.

 

With the help of Q-COMP's Return to work assist, Gary investigated his options and completed a course to become an assistant nurse and undertook vocational training with the Wesley Mission.

 

"I went straight into the workforce. They loved me and I loved it; it all fell into place."

 

Gary's amazing attitude and determination to get back to work that makes him truly deserving of his nomination for the Return to work Awards 2011.

 

Return to work assist is a free program that links injured workers whose compensation claims have been finalised and who don't have jobs to return to, with employment services, government-funded education and support until they find work again.

 

Find out more about Return to work assist on the Q-COMP website.