Sean Cunningham, Narrandera Argus

In today’s society where careers change often, 43-year-old John Howitt has proven that dedication, commitment and hard work can stand the test of time.

Well-known in the Narrandera community, John recently celebrated an incredible milestone – 35 years of service at Kurrajong Recycling.

For more than three decades John, who has an intellectual disability, has been part of the vital work at the centre.

Kurrajong Learning and Development Facilitator at Kurrajong Recycling, Amanda Ashbee, said John was among the first employees at the recycling plant.

“He started back in 1990 when he was 18, so he’s done most of the jobs here at the recycling plant,” Mrs Ashbee said.

“He’s worked on the conveyer belt, sorting out the paper people put in their yellow bins and shredding secure documents.

“John works here four days a week, so I have quite a bit to do with him, he pops up in the morning and has morning tea.

“He loves the drive out to Temora to pick up cardboard at some of the businesses there.”

Kurrajong has been much more than just a workplace for John, it’s been a second home to him over the years.

Mrs Ashbee partly attributes John’s length of service to enjoying spending time with the co-workers and friends he’s made over the years working at the centre.

“It’s almost unheard of in most other industries,” she said.

“But, to work that length of time is not uncommon here, we have people who have worked here for a long time.

“They tend to stay where they’re happy and it feels comfortable.”

Kurrajong CEO Ray Carroll also paid tribute to John’s service.

“We honoured John Howitt for his incredible 35 years of dedication at Kurrajong Recycling,” Mr Carroll said.

“John is known for his wit and boundless energy. Always ready with a quick quip, John has been an invaluable part of our team, especially on his favourite outings with the drivers. Here’s to many more years of laughter and teamwork.”

John’s father Bill, a well-known Narrandera local and staunch supporter of Kurrajong, is one of the main instigators behind Kurrajong being established at Narrandera.

“I know Bill played a very vital role and has a long history with Kurrajong, he was also a board member,” Mrs Ashbee said.

John’s lengthy tenure at Kurrajong Recycling highlights the importance of inclusive employment opportunities.

The organisation, which provides meaningful work for people with disabilities, has played a key role in helping individuals like John find stability, purpose and social connection.

“He’s got that bond outside of work too, he’s well liked in town,” Mrs Ashbee said.

“He loves catching up with his family on the weekend and enjoys going along with his supervisors to enjoy a beer at the pub every Thursday.

“He’s a bit of a larrikin and makes everyone laugh.”

Liked by many, John and his employment accomplishment are perhaps a reminder genuine dedication is not measured in job titles or promotions, but in the resolute commitment to a role that brings happiness and purpose.

This article appeared in the Narrandera Argus, 13 February 2025