Good News
Story – Cody

Determined to rebuild his life, Cody had relocated to Sydney after losing both of his parents in a car accident the year before. He had also faced personal challenges involving the police, adding further stress and complexity to his situation. His move to Sydney represented more than a change of location, it was a conscious step towards a fresh start.

Unfortunately, his life in Sydney was also turned upside down when he was surfing at Bondi Beach on 14 December. In the aftermath of the attack, Cody spotted a young, unconscious girl and he instinctively began performing CPR until emergency services arrived. Witnessing such horrible brutality had left Cody even more traumatised.

The following day, Cody attended MTC FutureReady Redfern and shared his experience with his Work Coach, Lance. Recognising the immediate impact of trauma, the team acted quickly, connecting Cody with allied health services on the same day. This early intervention helped him begin processing the traumatic event, stabilise emotionally, and re-engage with support services.

The team provided holistic and flexible support tailored to both Cody’s wellbeing and employment goals. Practical assistance included access to a mobile phone, Opal card top-ups to remove transport barriers, and Personal Protective Equipment to prepare him for work. Cody was also connected to an Indigenous mentor, who helped him navigate identity documentation and access essential services. GADI Services also provided mentoring sessions and strengthened his cultural connection, confidence, and motivation. Reinforcing his sense of belonging to the community and his long-term goals.

Recognising the importance of routine and morale, the team supported Cody’s connection to surfing. After losing a borrowed surfboard during the Bondi incident, Cody was assisted in obtaining his own. Surfing has become an important outlet for his mental health and continues to help him maintain balance and wellbeing.

With more secure accommodation now in place, Cody has been able to focus consistently on recovery, skill-building, and employment readiness. Drawing on his previous work experience as a scaffolder, he is exploring opportunities to re-enter physical employment while building stability in Sydney. His emotional wellbeing has stabilised, and he remains actively engaged with his Work Coach, allied health professionals, and mentors.