Noel originally wanted to join the police force to work as a youth liaison officer … however he had an injury that prevented him from following this dream. Noel completed a certificate in youth work at TAFE and came to Oasis instead.
"I really like it … I understand where the kids are coming from because it was around me when I grew up too – I’d do this in my spare time anyway… talking to youth. I don’t think this is something you can learn to do – it has to be in your blood to start with … it requires passion, patience and dedication …and it’s got to be in your system."
"I remember when I was in primary school, one of my friends had ragged shoes and I thought he was poor so next day I came to school and gave him a pair of my own shoes … you see, all kids should have the same chances as everyone else, but they don't."
"Life wasn’t meant to be easy but making it that little bit easier to cope is something I strive to do with these guys. I like to think of myself as a professional friend to them. Everyone needs someone to look to, to understand and to be persistent when things aren’t going right. I think they all have potential … like Brendon, who came upstairs the other day and painted the rooms, even though he no longer lives here... It’s about empowerment here … we are on the same level … No better or worse..."
Noel is the Case Worker for the Oasis Crisis Accommodation service at Surry Hills.
