In 2018, Hireup user Murray was scrolling Hireup on his iPad when he came across support worker Deb’s profile. “Murray was one of my first clients on Hireup. He called me up, we had a chat and then we met in person,” says Deb.
During their meet and greet they discovered their similarities and mutual interests. “We both [have] a very cheeky sense of humour, really outgoing, close in age, like the same music and we both drink bourbon!” laughs Deb. And “we like going to the football!” says Murray.
So in 2019, Deb and Murray worked for the Parramatta Eels at the Bankwest Stadium as part of the Parramatta fan experience team. “They’re really supportive of people with disability. They gave us uniforms, membership and everything. [We] greet people as they come in the gates and hand out stuff to the kids and fans,” says Deb.
“I like to help people out,” says Murray and “he helps a lot of people,” says Deb. “We've [also] been interviewed…and had Murray's face over every screen at the [football] stadium.” The busy schedule doesn’t stop there.
Together, Murray and Deb were involved in a Hireup video as part of the launch efforts in Brisbane. A company promoting disability friendly cruises has Murray’s face “on every table on this cruise...and they're talking about doing a TV commercial,” says Deb.
And, Murray and Deb were also involved in a fundraiser organised by the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. “They needed about $15,000 and we raised $198,000. A certain amount was raised for Murray’s wheelchair and the rest to help other people with cerebral palsy and their wheelchairs,” explains Deb.
“So we've done a lot in the last two years.” They’ve been away for weekends and gone on holidays together. They’ve even made a bourbon banana cake together. “Debbie makes me happy,” says Murray.
For Deb, “Murray [has] taught me how to be a good carer. I didn't have any experience as a carer or working in disabilities… he pretty much showed me the ropes in how people should be treated and respected.”
