Sarah Leibbrandt

SWN Good News Story – Sarah Leibbrandt

Sarah was initially prompted to call into the SWN Jobs Hub after driving past the Hub. Sarah was looking for casual employment that would be suitable for her circumstances after suffering a stroke years prior. After initial discussions with Career Advisors, some assistance with restructuring and tailoring her resume, SWN was able to assist Sarah with securing casual employment with a local distillery as a Bottling Attendant.

When that employment opportunity ended due to a decrease in work, Sarah then obtained a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) ticket and started working at Rhonda’s on Midlands. Sarah then came to us later seeking assistance to obtain additional tickets and to gain skills in housekeeping, coffee making and Back of House. SWN was able to assist Sarah with this upskilling, which she is now able to put into practice with her employer.

We recently caught up with Sarah to ask her some questions regarding her experience.

Have you always lived and worked in Tasmania?
No, I originally lived in Scotland and attended University in Scotland as well. Once I completed my studies, I relocated to Perth in Western Australia, where I worked on Offshore Oil Rigs, for 8 years before settling in Tasmania.

**What sort of jobs/industries have you worked in, in the past?**

I previously worked as an Offshore Rig Data Engineer, Onshore Rig Wellsite Geologist, and a Legal Secretary within Government.


**How did you first hear about the SWN Jobs Hub?**

I had driven past and decided to call in as I was wanting some assistance to find casual employment.


**How did you find your initial meeting with SWN went? Did it meet your expectations?**

Yes, it went well, and I got what I was hoping for from my first meeting. The SWN Team was very friendly.


**Did you initially access SWN services for employment or training/upskilling purposes?**

Following a stroke that made it impossible for me to continue working on rigs, I began exploring alternative career paths.


**Did you reach your intended goals accessing support from SWN? **

Yes, I was able to secure a role with a local distillery for a 2-year period and then when that role ended, I’ve landed a job at Rhonda’s on Midlands. SWN then supported me in upskilling, where I obtained my Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) and Keno Writer Tickets, which I will be able to use for my job.


**What is your current role and what does a typical workday look like for you?**

I am employed as a Food and Beverage Attendant. A typical day for me is serving customers, pouring and making drinks, Point of Sale operation and cash handling, general cleaning and running food orders to tables.


**Would you recommend SWN to your family and Friends?**

Yes!

Thank you, Sarah, for taking the time to sit down with us, and for letting us share your story and journey with SWN. We wish you continued success and wish you the very best for your future within the hospitality industry.