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Supporting a dream for Lakes Entrance

Ben Gritt & Joe Zagami

Twenty-year-old Lakes Entrance resident Ben Gritt may have limited eyesight but that hasn’t shaken his determination to shape a career doing what he enjoys most - motor mechanics.

By - 9th October 2003 - Back to News

Ben, who was born with limited vision through his left eye and none through his right, is on the hunt for a locally based apprenticeship so that he can take one step closer to his dream.

"I’ve had a passion for mechanics ever since I can remember," Ben says. "I started off tinkering with billy-carts when I was much younger and then I really got into it whilst doing auto technology systems during VCE."

"What I need now is to secure an apprenticeship so that I can continue to learn and advance in this area – whether it be with a car or marine auto shop."

As part of his development, Ben visits the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind (RVIB) in Melbourne each week to take part in their ASSIST program in industrial skills – the only program of its kind in Australia.

"I started off doing an introductory course, which covered woodwork and metal work. Now I’m doing level two metal work and it’s really boosting my skills, accuracy and confidence."

Ben is also currently undertaking a 13-week work experience placement at Whither Street Autos in Lakes Entrance and shop manager, Mr Joe Zagami, says he is amazed by Ben’s skills and understanding of motor mechanics.

"It has been really interesting for me to get some hands-on time in an auto shop and I’m grateful to Joe for giving me that opportunity," Ben says.

"I always say that if you are determined enough then the sky is the limit and I haven’t yet come across anything that could stop me. I always find ways around my hurdles and any prospective employers should know that."

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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