Riley - Assistant Nurseryhand and Groundsperson
Planting seeds: How Riley’s local park inspired his fulfilling career at Redland City Council
Like the gardens he lovingly tends, Riley is flourishing at Redland City Council. Our Assistant Nurseryhand and Groundsperson has taken obstacles in his stride as he’s achieved remarkable things for his community and career. Riley constantly inspires us with his positivity and passion for the outdoors.
Seizing obstacles as opportunities
Growing up opposite a large Redland City Council park, Riley spent his childhood marvelling at the ride-on mowers and slashers that kept the grounds in check. They were big, loud and exciting - and he couldn’t wait to operate them himself one day!
“I used to watch the guys on the mowers across the road as a kid, and I knew I wanted to work at Council, too,” Riley says. “I’ve always wanted to get into landscaping because of that park.”
Riley’s love of the outdoors led him to a work experience placement at IndigiScapes, Council’s environmental education centre and botanic gardens. With a can-do attitude, Riley began a traineeship with us in 2020. Since then, he has attained his Certificate II in Horticulture and is now a full-time Assistant Nurseryhand and Groundsperson.
Living with an intellectual impairment presents Riley with learning challenges. Yet, he rises to each one with positivity and determination. And that’s why we’re so proud Riley was named Queensland regional finalist for the 2022 Equity VET (Vocational Education and Training) Student of the Year.
“It feels pretty amazing. It’s been challenging getting to know how everything works at Council, but everyone has been supportive and helpful. My parents are very proud of me, and I love working here.”
A contribution that counts
Riley’s workday starts at the quiet hour of 6am. He makes sure everything is in order before IndigiScapes opens its doors to crowds of eager visitors.
“It’s very peaceful. Then it gets busier, and the car park is full by 12 o’clock. But I like that, too. I love chatting with visitors and all the staff. They’re all very nice people.”
Riley diligently tends to IndigiScapes’ range of beautiful gardens, each showcasing a different native habitat. He loves being active outside - whether he’s mulching, pruning, creating paths and rock walls, or doing general grounds maintenance.
“I really enjoy making new gardens. It’s satisfying when you finish a garden and can say, ‘wow, that looks amazing!’”
Ask Riley what he’s most proud of in his time at Redland City Council, and he’ll tell you it’s learning to use all the different equipment - especially the ride-on mowers!
“My supervisor, Rod, teaches me a lot and keeps me in line. Whenever my colleague, Carl and I come up with an idea, we suggest it to Rod, and he says, ‘yep, you can do that!”
A bright future
At 3pm, Riley’s work day is done, but you’ll still find him outdoors, enjoying one of his three main passions – fishing, mountain biking and four-wheel driving!
Riley sees the impact of his work every day, and with Council’s support, he looks forward to taking his career to even greater heights as he works towards his Certificate III and IV in Horticulture.
Riley’s advice for anyone considering a similar career at Council?
“Just give it a go. I gave it a go, and I love it. If you like to work outside and have an interest in plants and gardens, you can do it. And no matter what happens, it's always a good day.”