23 September 2019

Michael Fisher recently moved from Moree to join St Vincent de Paul (Vinnies), Tamworth in his ongoing quest to make a positive difference in the lives of Australians after completing not only one, but two Diplomas of Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) online with TAFE NSW.

Mr Fisher said, “The service I’m bringing to Tamworth is a combination of lived experiences in both mental health and drug and alcohol dependency, along with tertiary qualifications in these areas.

“I believe that when struggling people are able to improve their lives, this has a positive flow-on effect for their families and wider community.”

The St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia has more than 60,000 members and volunteers, who work hard to assist people in need and to combat social injustice.

“The practical skills TAFE NSW graduates gain through their studies provides them with the ability to make a practical difference when they enter the workforce,” said Ms Monica Yanni, senior health operations manager at Vinnies.

“We are always on the lookout for quality people who are determined to better themselves and the wider community.”

Before joining Vinnies as a case worker, Mr Fisher was employed by the Moree Aboriginal Residential Rehab Centre where he started his online study journey by completing two Certificate IVs in AOD and Community Services with TAFE Digital.

“A growing desire to improve my knowledge and develop a better understanding of my clients’ needs, definitely got me over the line when applying for a case worker role at Vinnies,” said Mr Fisher.

“Although I had experience in this field, I am now able to develop strategies related to alcohol and other drug relapse prevention and management, while being cognisant of mental health issues.”

Mr Fisher is passionate about seeing people getting their lives back on track.

“Although I don’t take credit for my clients’ achievements, I get a sense that I have been part of something very special when they become independent and live healthy lives,” he said.

To see TAFE Digital’s hundreds of online courses across a range of modern industries, please visit https://www.tafensw.edu.au/digital

Media contact: Bonny Gunn, TAFE Digital Communications and Media Business Partner. M: 0417 134 048