Tim Walk does not let his chronic pain stop him from working

Tim Walk, 58, lives with a chronic pain condition and is limited when it comes to lifting or moving heavy items.

As a teenager, Tim signed up to the Air Force, and after years of manual work he decided he needed to transfer his skills to more sustainable employment. Originally from North East Arnhem Land Tim headed home before working across Western Australian mines and refineries. To assist his career change he later completed a Certificate IV in Occupational Health and Safety. 

Despite his disabilities, Tim found full time employment working on one of Sydney’s major infrastructure projects – the junction of the M4 and M5, the most critical component of the WestConnex project. Tim works 90 metres underground in one of the three tunnels as a Safety Manager for ARA Mechanical. 

Tim’s day starts at 3.30am where he exercises and stretches to warm up before heading off to work. By 7am Tim and the crews are assembled to complete a pre-work inspection and review any safety issues that have arisen. Tim is also responsible for ensuring the respiratory equipment is in good working order and the machines are functioning efficiently. 

During the day he continues to monitor safety aspects across the three tunnels before he heads home for a super-hot shower and more exercise. 

Tim feels he has hit the jackpot with both his employer and his Disability Employment Service provider, Global Skills. 

“Scott, my DES Consultant, is Superman. He is always there when you need him,” Tim said. 

“There have been times when my pain has become overwhelming, and Scott is always there to cheer me on – his weekly phone calls are motivating.

“I am NOT a number to him. I am a real person talking to another real person. They are asking real questions because they care.” 

Congratulations Tim on your achievements.!