Time is running out for Queensland's injured workers and the
individuals and organisations that help them get back to work as
nominations for the Return to work Awards 2011 close in less than a
month.
The Return to work Awards 2011 is the only event in Queensland
that celebrates the achievements of injured workers who get back to
work, along with the employers, case managers, rehabilitation and
return to work coordinators and health providers who work
tirelessly to help them reach their goals.
With over 150 nominations received across five award categories,
Q-COMP is reaching out to anyone in the state who deserves to be
recognised by the industry and their peers to submit an awards
application before the close of nominations on 8 July 2011.
Elizabeth Woods, Chief Executive Officer for Q-COMP, is
overwhelmed by the significant number of strong award nomination
applications already received.
"The Return to work Awards is giving individuals and
organisations the opportunity to be recognised for everything
they've achieved in building a positive return to work culture in
Queensland. So many people have already shared their amazing return
to work stories, but with the nomination closing date approaching,
it is important everyone gets an opportunity to have their efforts
rewarded," said Ms Woods.
One of the many amazing return to work journeys shared through
the Awards is that of Gary Watson.
Gary had been an overseer on cattle properties for 20 years,
when he 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 looked hard and long at a few different options I had to
return to work. It was a bit of a worry what I was going to do. 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."
With the help of Return to work assist, a free program that
connects injured workers with training and job services, 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. When I completed the course, they
offered me a permanent part time position which I accepted."
Homesick for the country lifestyle, Gary and his partner later
moved to acreage in Bundaberg, where he was offered a job in aged
care.
"There have been a lot of positives - it has given me a new look
at life because I'm dealing with other peoples' lives everyday.
It's given me the attitude not to take things for granted. If all
this didn't happen I wouldn't have my own property now - we've
moved on successfully." Gary says.
"It's hard to get back to work, but there are definitely rewards
at the end. It's been difficult, and the light at the end of the
tunnel was a long, long way off, but in the end it has proved a
positive and rewarding change."
It's this amazing attitude and determination to get back to work
that make Gary an inspiration, and truly deserving of his
nomination for the Return to work Awards 2011.
Nominating is quick and easy at qcompconference.com.au and can
be done by an individual wishing to share their motivations or by a
friend who thinks there is someone who deserves the acknowledgement
of the industry.
The Return to work Awards recognises each finalist with a
certificate, and each award winner to receive up to $2,000 in prize
money. Award nominations for the Return to work Awards close 8 July
2011.
Nominations forms, inspirational stories of previous award
finalists and winners and a video with more information about the
awards are available at qcompconference.com.au
The Return to work Awards are held at a joint ceremony with the
Queensland Safe Work Awards, run by Workplace Health and Safety
Queensland and the Electrical Safety Office, to reward and promote
innovative ideas and practices, leadership and commitment to
workplace health and safety.
- ENDS -
To arrange an interview with Q-COMP CEO Elizabeth Woods
or Gary Watson please contact Virginia Hollands on 07 3020 6405 or
virginia.hollands@qcomp.com.au.