Celebrating 50 years of service, Dave Cashill

Last week we had the pleasure of celebrating an extraordinary milestone at are-able, Dave Cashill’s 50 years of service.

Reaching five decades with one organisation is a rare achievement. It reflects loyalty, steady commitment, and the kind of pride in work that makes a real difference, day after day. Dave’s contribution has helped shape our workplaces and teams over many years, and we were proud to recognise him with a morning tea alongside colleagues and friends.

Over his 50-year journey, Dave has worked across several areas, including the original nursery, eWaste Recycling and the Big R’s Shed. His work has also spanned major changes over time, including the transition from Wannon Metal Design to Vantage, and later to are-able taking over operations in 2011.

During his years in metalwork and manufacturing, Dave contributed to a wide range of projects, including debris diverters for Reece Plumbing, with Dave responsible for spot welding and powder coating, sawhorses for Bunnings, and fences and balustrading for private homes and businesses.

Those who have worked alongside Dave describe him as careful and consistent, someone who takes genuine pride in doing the job well. That attention to detail showed in his welding and powder coating work, and in the way he approached each task with focus and responsibility.

One of Dave’s standout achievements was earning his forklift licence, a goal he worked hard towards with support from then manager Norm Scoble, who spent many hours helping Dave build the skills and confidence to get there.

When the metalwork business closed, Dave continued his employment in eWaste Recycling, bringing the same strong work ethic and pride in contribution into a new work area.

For Dave, the value of work is not only the tasks, it is also the sense of purpose and connection it brings.

“I like working here as it gives me something meaningful to do. I love the people I work with and the friendships I have formed over the years.”

That simple reflection captures what so many people told us last week. Dave is a valued colleague, a steady presence, and someone who has built strong relationships across our teams over decades.

We want to sincerely thank Dave for his dedication, his contribution, and the many relationships he has built across are-able over the past 50 years. We also want to thank the colleagues and leaders who have supported Dave along the way, and everyone who joined us last week to make the celebration such a warm and respectful moment.

Dave’s milestone is a reminder of what inclusive workplaces can look like when people are given the chance to build skills, contribute over time, and be valued for who they are.

are-able is an Australian regional not-for-profit delivering disability employment services, NDIS supports, youth and family supports, training, and social enterprises, working alongside people to build skills, confidence and pathways to participation and employment.