When Carol Edwards walked through the doors of Lily Lagoon Resort in late 2025, she was beginning her very first job.

Nervous and unsure whether the work might be too much, Carol joined the resort’s housekeeping team through NIAAA's Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program.

Less than nine months later, Carol has been promoted to Head of Housekeeping.

“I was a little nervous when I first started and wondered whether it would be too much for me,” Carol said.

“But once I got started, I realised Lily Lagoon has a great team. I wanted to stick it out, and keep doing my best.”

The Australian Government’s RJED program supports the creation of sustainable jobs that reflect the priorities and workforce needs of remote communities.

Through the RJED program, Wunan Foundation Inc. has created employment opportunities for local people in Kununurra’s Indigenous tourism and hospitality sector. At Lily Lagoon Resort, these roles span housekeeping, guest services, hospitality and maintenance.

Lily Lagoon Resort provides a supportive workplace where local people can gain practical experience, receive on-the-job training and build pathways towards long-term employment and leadership.

For Carol, that pathway has taken her from a nervous new employee to a confident and respected supervisor.

“When I found out I was being promoted, I was excited, but then everything happened so quickly,” Carol said.

“I still can’t believe it today. I went from being in training to now supervising. It’s amazing.”

As Head of Housekeeping, Carol coordinates the daily roster, supports her team and ensures every room is prepared to a high standard. At the heart of her work is a genuine desire to make every guest feel comfortable and welcome.

“What I enjoy most about housekeeping is making sure the guests are happy, that they enjoy their nice, tidy rooms and have an enjoyable stay. That’s the main thing,” she said.

“I make sure everyone turns up for the daily roster and does their part. I’m always happy with what the team does.”

Lily Lagoon Resort General Manager Mark Summers said Carol’s growth had been remarkable to witness.

“We’ve watched in awe as she transformed from that shy young lady into a confident, respected leader who isn’t afraid to call the shots and lift her team up with her,” Mr Summers said.

Carol’s influence extends well beyond the daily running of the housekeeping team. Through her willingness to support others, she has helped create a workplace where more female employees feel welcomed, valued and encouraged to succeed.

Lily Lagoon had previously faced challenges retaining Indigenous employees in housekeeping. Today, the team has grown to include 10 Indigenous staff members, with Carol’s leadership and example playing an important role in that positive change.

“From day one, Carol has been an inspiration, especially to other Indigenous team members,” Mr Summers said.

“Her dedication, growth and quiet strength have helped create a positive and supportive environment where more Indigenous women feel welcome and empowered."

“We are incredibly proud of Carol and cannot wait to see the even greater things she will accomplish in the future, both here at Lily Lagoon and in the wider community.”

Now standing confidently at the head of her team, Carol hopes her journey will encourage others who may feel nervous about taking their first step into employment.

“If I had any advice for someone starting their first job, I would say: keep going. Go to work every day, keep it up and believe you can get somewhere, just like me.”

Carol’s story is an example of what can happen when a genuine employment opportunity is met with determination and encouragement.

From her first tentative day at Lily Lagoon to leading its housekeeping team, she is showing others what is possible and proving that a first job can be the beginning of something life-changing.