AFTER 35 years with disability services provider Myhorizon, Paul Ballard is retiring.
Mr Ballard joined the organisation as a service user but as it evolved, he was able to take advantage of employment opportunities.
When he joined the organisation was known as HARD and had an activity therapy centre for local residents with disability.
"I remember in the mid-1980s when Myhorizon grew to include more service areas like independent living and social enterprises which opened up supported employment opportunities for me," Mr Ballard said.
He was involved in Myhorizon's Wire and Wood enterprise, contributing to product design and as the social club's treasurer.
With the opening of Myhorizon's Runnymede Road premises, Mr Ballard has worked for the Bush Pantry Cafe, in the event centre and doing packaging and collating.
"I've learnt lots of new skills over the years at Myhorizon but I've also made many great friends who I'll miss dearly," he said.
"The people I've worked with are like a family but I won't be out of touch because I'll still see them at rec club and Sunday bowling and some of my friends on the weekend.
"I've even agreed to help organise the Secret Santa like I have past couple of years."
Myhorizon production supervisor Troy Morton said Mr Ballard was a capable and helpful team member.
"We will all miss his unique energy but wish him all the best in his retirement," Mr Morton said.
"Paul would often help others when he could and he also had some great nicknames for members of the team such as Happy Helen, Cheryl from the Navy and Super Kev."
Mr Ballard said he had enjoyed his work life but was excited to catch up on television and video games, go for more walks and exercise at the gym.
