Housing seasonal workers has benefits for all

A BUSINESS in Kennett River says it has reaped the benefits of backpackers hosted locally to work as staff, and is encouraging homeowners along the Great Ocean Road to do the same.

The easing of COVID-19 restrictions and reopening of international borders has seen backpackers keen for work return to the Great Ocean Road.

However, accommodation options are scarce, and hospitality workers along the Great Ocean Road region do not qualify for the 88-day Working Holiday Visa, making it difficult for small businesses to hire staff to meet demand.

Proprietor of the Kafe Koala General Store (KKGS) in Kennett River Laurence Hennessy said backpackers had always been integral to the operation of his business.

“While some staff can be accommodated on site – a bonus for the region – in the peak season, more accommodation is required.

“It is essential to be creative in finding accommodation.”

KKGS posted a community shout-out for help accommodating workers at the beginning of summer, and Jules and Enj hosted backpackers Ruby and Yvet.

“Opening our home to two overseas back-packers has been a positive and rewarding experience beyond our wildest dream,” Jules and Enj said.

“Initially we were motivated to support our local café/general store during the busy summer period and following two years of constant lockdowns, what was unexpected was a summer filled with constant little joys – catching up for backyard cricket after work, card games under the stars, sundowners on the beach, learning about life in Ireland and the Netherlands, walks with our dogs, shared meals and importantly, developing lifelong friendships.”

Ruby and Yvet similarly loved the experience.

“This was my first solo trip and I can say wholeheartedly I haven’t felt alone for a second,” Ruby said.

“One of the most important parts of living with Jules, Enj and the kids was being welcomed into a family, sharing Christmas dinner , experiencing move nights and daily walks along the beach.”

Mr Hennssy said Ruby and Yvet having a safe and comfortable space to reside after work coupled with the family experiences made their time here richly rewarding.

“Community support enabled KKGS a solid workforce to deliver great coffee, great food, and great service.

“The success of hosting is a community effort – a combination of proper screening, being open to new experiences, honesty and commitment by the business, the hosts and the backpackers.

“We encourage more people to get involved in the future.”

Finding affordable accommodation for seasonal workers along the Great Ocean Road has become particularly difficult in recent years.

The Surf Coast Shire has been following the issue closely, declaring a key worker accommodation crisis in Lorne in May 2021 and promoting the Adopt a Worker scheme in which local residents house a worker or workers during the peak holiday periods.