Holden closure

[BENT_8]

Well guys, I witnessed the human side to all this last night.
I wouldn't usually disclose personal conversations but I think this is one time it can be excused.
Last night my nephew and I stood in my carport with my very good mate and shed tears.
My mate is a 50yo veteran of 26 years service to Holden at Elizabeth.
In his own words, Holden has been half his life.

He will be in his mid 50's when he is made redundant, his father faced the same fate from BHP 30 years before.
He went home on Wednesday night and had a beer with his dad, they had new found things in common.
Now, let me tell you, this man is not soft, but his world has been rocked and the cracks are evident.
This is just one example, I know of 36yr veterans straight from school.

After discussing the many facets that led to the decision our conversation turned to his future prospects.
he explained that, despite being skilled in many aspects of vehicle manufacturing, his only relevant skill transfers are spray painting and spot welding.
In there lies the dilemma.
You have an honest, reliable and well respected veteran of 26yrs service who's only skill set is in vehicle manufacturing.
Who openly admits he couldn't switch a pc on and doesn't drive, who lives in an area of high unemployment, in a State where unemployment rose 1% last qtr.
How is his outlook?

Wether the government throws millions at the problem or not, lots of people will fail to find alternative employment and those who do will need to adapt to lower income in many cases.