Rob Fimognari is the contractor employed by the City of Rockingham to deliver the new bins.
His business MGB (WA) Services has operated for more than 20 years, rolling out wheelie bins all across Perth.
“I normally would use backpackers to help with each rollout/replacement of bins,” he said.
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READ NOW“But with employment so low, especially in Rockingham and Kwinana, I wanted to give locals some work.”
He organised the workers through the Salvation Army Employment Plus service.
Employment Plus recruiter Emma Stone said the service was delighted that he had chosen to help long-term unemployed.
“This year Rob approached the Salvation Army to help local job seekers get their foot in the door for some work,” she said. “He has managed to take on more than 35 workers with full-time work for the next six weeks.
“This is huge for some of these job seekers as they have been held back from work due to barriers such as having a driver’s licence. With Rob, they finally have that chance to get a little bit of work in and keep them motivated.”
Supervisor Alf Kelly said morale was strong among the group.
“A lot were unemployed for almost two years in some cases; it’s helped encourage them again and they want to work,” he said.
Recruits Jason Miles, Darren Binsarin and Robert Myatt said it wasn’t just about enjoying a pay packet.
“It just takes that pressure off and has given our self-esteem a boost,” they said.
Three weeks into the contract, Mr Fimognari was pleased with his decision.
“They are just so grateful to have the work,” he said.
“There really are some fantastic young guys out there with strong work ethics.
“I have put in for a new contract for Melville and Cockburn and if successful, I’ll be ringing these guys.”
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