Branching Out: Building a Path to a Fresh Start

Introduction

Kirsten Macquet was forced to change careers for the sake of her mental wellbeing. Landscaping gave her the opportunity to work for herself in a career where many of her skills were interchangeable. The success of her business meant she could take on an apprentice much sooner than she’d expected.

The Challenge

Kirsten’s fourteen years as a paramedic had taken a significant toll. After being diagnosed with PTSD, she knew it was time for a change. At 36, Kirsten decided to pursue a new career in landscaping, finding solace in the physical work and the opportunity to create something positive.

“It’s pretty similar to the ambulance work in a lot of ways, in the sense that every job’s different, every client’s different, it covers a massive range of skills and you’re still dealing with people and being outdoors. So, all of that really just fitted. I guess I just deal with plants and rocks now, instead of people in distress,” Kirsten said.

The Solution

After completing her qualification in Landscape Construction, Kirsten took a bold step into the unknown by opening her own business in October 2024. Landscaping Lass took off and just a few months later, she hired her first apprentice, Elke.

“It was probably six months sooner than I expected, but absolutely no regrets. I knew Elke through Canberra Institute of Technology from when I was a student. I had seen her work ethic and her motivation. She’s young and keen and just a really lovely person. She’s got a big heart. I see a lot of potential in her,” Kirsten said.

“I want to teach her everything I know. My vision is for her to eventually be able to run her own business and go off on her own, so I want to teach her as much as I can. I’ve loved every minute so far.”

Kirsten was able to take on Elke with the help of Rosie McKenzie, an Apprenticeship Consultant from Mas National, part of the IntoWork Group. Besides the contracts, training requirements and paperwork, Kirsten said Mas have offered invaluable personal support.

“I wasn’t really prepared for the responsibility of taking on an apprentice and what comes with that. Especially being responsible for someone’s wage and someone’s welfare every week. Rosie’s been really supportive, letting me know that there’s mentoring through Mas and linking us to all the services available. It’s been amazing, the support that Rosie’s given. It’s been so smooth and easy, I can’t thank her enough.”

The Results

Landscaping Lass currently has a backlog of about three weeks’ worth of jobs. With the busy season just about to start, the future for the duo looks bright. Elke has deferred the classroom element of her apprenticeship until next year, preferring to devote this year to working on the tools.

Besides the positive feedback from clients and support from the local community, Elke says it’s her relationship with Kirsten that’s been the most rewarding part of the job.

“With every other job that I’ve had, I’ve enjoyed the work but the people you work with is a really important part of it. Kirsten’s been a great mentor. She isn’t like just a work boss. I can go and talk to her about my personal life or go to her for help. She’s keen on helping me learn how to run my own business one day, which is awesome.”

Conclusion

The partnership has helped Kirsten manage the symptoms of her past trauma. She keeps herself super busy with her business and teaching two nights a week but says the companionship on site has also been a huge help.

“I’ve realised that PTSD is a lifelong thing but I’ve definitely noticed the triggers are getting less,” she said. “The change of career definitely helps. Some days are a little harder than others but having Elka around and not working on my own anymore, that’s made a massive difference. It’s good banter, she’s good company, so it’s good for the head.”