22-year-old Sam Stubbs is well known in his local community of Jervis Bay, and works at two different jobs: At Bakehouse Espresso Group and Wild Ginger.
When he was in school, his parents used to take him to the bakery to learn some money management skills and practice social interaction. He went in so many times that when he was 15 years old, they offered him a job.
Story by Sam Stubbs
I started at the bakery when I was 15. I was excited.
I have worked there for over six years.
I do croissants, I help to do the pies, I help unload the truck and I do sausage rolls.
I help Shane with the sausage roll machine.
In the cool room I put the croissants on the tray. You need 12 on each tray. Then you put them on the rack and take them to the oven.
I like serving customers. They’re nice and funny. I’m good with people and remembering their names.
I get behind the till and am learning about money and maths.
I also do orders on the computer from Sanctuary Point, Nowra and Huskisson. The orders go to schools, they go to Sydney, they go to petrol stations.
My bosses there are Justine and Troy. They are really good.
Brendan was my work coach. He helped me to work better.
He gave me more skills and taught me how to make some products.
I did rock cakes and lamingtons. They’re messy. I got chocolate everywhere. Then I made the brekkie pies. It’s got bacon, cheese, chives and egg.
It’s great being a part of the team.
They’re good boys to work with.
I work there three days a week.
Sam’s best mate worked at the local restaurant and wine bar Wild Ginger, so he wanted to work there too. One day he saw the manager Kierrin in the street and asked him if he could have a job. Kierrin replied: “When do you want to start?”
I am also a bartender at Wild Ginger.
I started cleaning glasses when I was 17.
Then I got my RSA and my cousin helped me with my course. The first drink I served was to my cousin an espresso martini.
Then I poured Mum a drink!
I started pouring beers at the bar when I got my RSA.
I like pouring the drinks and meeting the locals.
I cut off people who drink too much. I say: “Mate, last one! No more!”
Working helps me learn about money.
Getting money is important to be more independent.
I want to move out of home one day. My parents will stay at home. It will be nice. So, there will be no more nagging.
