​Rudolf is RFQ’s longest-serving staff member, joining us as a placement student in 1992 before moving into a support worker role in 1993. He thinks he was undertaking a certificate in disability studies at the time but can’t be sure – it was a long time ago, after all!

“There were approximately six to eight staff at RFQ at the time, which is incredible considering there are almost 500 now. Despite the immense growth, it’s heart-warming to see the ethos and client-focused nature have remained front-of-mind for everyone who works here. It’s why we work so well and are so professional and respected – putting the client first is part of our DNA.”

The mental health sector is a far cry from the construction industry, where Rudolf got his start. While he loved his time working outside with his hands, he always suspected there was something else calling to him.

“My mum and brother have both struggled with their mental health over the years, so it’s always been a part of my life. It felt like a natural fit for me, as I wanted to know how I could help others. I feel incredibly lucky to have landed at RFQ.”

As you would expect, Rudolf has held various positions over the years at RFQ. Starting as a support worker, he went on to manage our former Eliza Street therapeutic community for ten years before holding various coordination and management positions. He’s now back to his roots on the frontline, working as an Advanced Recovery Support Worker.

“I absolutely love my role – I’m able to utilise my experience to mentor staff, but I also get the client contact which I desperately missed. That is why I got into this field, so it’s been wonderful getting back to that. I found the commitment required for management’s travel, meetings, and so on were moving me farther from a healthy work-life balance. So it’s a delight to have more family time and be able to work fifteen minutes from home, with such a wonderful team. I feel blessed.”