HW Greenham & Sons PALM workers graduated from the food-handling Qualify course on Monday, May 26.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
From perfecting the pavlova to hosting a quintessential sausage sizzle, international workers are embracing Australian culture as they prepare for permanent residency.
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A partnership between local meat processing giant HW Greenham & Sons and Victorian employment and education provider Qualify has seen the first cohort from the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme graduate from a food-handling course.
The group of employees — originating from nine Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste — gathered at the Tongala Community Activities Centre on Monday, May 26 to receive their certificates of completion.
The program, which began in December 2024, was an overwhelming success.
Participants mastered Australian culinary experiences and improved their English skills, aiding their visa extensions and potential citizenship journey.
Instructor Liz Powell explained that the food-handling course offered more than culinary skills; it provided a valuable opportunity for participants to fully immerse themselves in the local community.
Tables at the Tongala Community Activities Centrewere filled with students from the Qualify course.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
“They get an understanding of the education system, the government system and celebrate Easter and Anzac Day just like all other Australians do,” she said.
“I say to the students that you're giving up your life to be here, and for the time you're here, this course is yours.
“It’s not your parents, it’s not your extended family, it’s not your wife, it’s not your children. This is your time.”
HW Greenham & Sons exclusively offers long-term opportunities for PALM workers.
Once they work for three years, they can ask for a one-year extension and after that, they can prepare for the Pearson Test of English exam, completion of which is compulsory for permanent residence.
Qualify general manager of operations Will Henderson congratulates the graduates on a successful completion of the food-handling course.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
The Qualify course also teaches them life skills that can apply when they get back to their home countries so they can start businesses or apply for jobs.
Qualify general manager of operations Will Henderson emphasised to the attendees that the students were valued individuals, not just numbers filling a quota.
“This program is not just about lessons and textbooks — it’s about building connections, and it’s about supporting one another and preparing for a brighter future,” Mr Henderson said.
“You are role models in your community. The dedication you show by being here today has led to that determination.”
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