This month marks a huge milestone for Jake Gittoes, a Youth Employment Program (YEP) participant who began his work journey with Bunnings through a local Cairns pathway 5 years ago thanks to the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism (DWATSIPM).
YEP is an employment support program for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are finishing high school and looking for work or considering further education.
The program also assists Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with a Certificate III or higher, who are not supported by a job agency.
“Jake embodies the values of our store and team,” said Micheal Borzi, Manager at Cairns Bunnings. “He has completed the Intro to Leadership program, and we value Jake.”
As a proud Gumbaynggirr man from the North Coast of New South Wales, Jake has overcome challenges, including vision impairment and other disabilities, to become a key member of the Bunnings team. His determination and positive attitude have made him a role model for others.
“It doesn’t matter who you are or what your background is, just apply—keep trying even if you fail the first time,” Jake said.
When asked about his favourite part of the job, Jake said: “I really like serving customers. Talking to people. I’ve had people come in and ask for me personally, and that’s a really good feeling.”
Jake said the workplace culture at Bunnings was positive, with good people and a great vibe.
His dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, Jake has earned several accolades, including two Visitor and Values Awards for positive customer feedback, and specialist badges for BBQ, Pool, and Outdoor Living.
The past 5 years have brought significant changes to Jake’s life outside of work as well. He met and married Mona, a wonderful woman from Papua New Guinea, and together they have two children—Uriel, aged three, and Ruby, who is one.
“For me, it’s about family and culture—my Indigenous culture, and the Australian culture of inclusion and acceptance,” said Jake.
Jake’s story demonstrates the power of perseverance and how support can lead to success. Inclusive workplaces and programs, like YEP, provide important opportunities for individuals to prosper.
Congratulations to Bunnings for their commitment to increasing social inclusion and for taking meaningful steps to achieve their Reconciliation Action Plan goals.
Last reviewed:15 January 2026
Last modified:15 January 2026
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) licence
We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestors of this land, their spirits and their legacy. The foundations laid by these ancestors—our First Nations peoples—give strength, inspiration and courage to current and future generations towards creating a better Queensland.
We will respect, protect and promote human rights within our decision-making and actions.
