FACES OF BAPTCARE #19: ANDRE-LUC ARIAS STANNARD (otherwise known as Tour the Otter)

We chatted with Andre-Luc stannard about his roles at BaptistCare: workplace trainer and costume play (‘cosplay’) character, Tour the Otter.

1. What do you like about your job as a NDIS workplace trainer?

   I enjoy many things working in the NDIS space and we have a fantastic team here at BaptistCare NDIS. I get countless opportunities to engage and work with NDIS teams and stakeholders across the state. Every day brings a new experience and that’s something I strive for. The work is autonomous, there is flexibility and accommodations made by BaptistCare for my own working arrangements and needs. I love the opportunities to undertake projects and represent BaptistCare out of the traditional office setting, such as at community events.

2. How long have you worked for BaptistCare?

   I have worked with BaptistCare for over 4 years now. I started as a Local Area Coordinator in mid 2018 where I supported NDIS participants and stakeholders in the Glenorchy, Hobart, Kingsborough and Huon Local Government Areas. Mid last year I moved into an office- based role supporting both the North and South of the state in a NDIS gateway phone referral line service. I’ve also had a stint as an Acting Manager which was a fantastic opportunity for my own professional growth. Currently, I am in the Acting Workplace Trainer role.

3. What does a typical day look like for you?

   A typical day for me is delivering one on one or group-based training around the ever- evolving NDIS Policy and procedures. I also juggle undertaking audits of staff’s work and complete client satisfaction surveys which help me identify training opportunities to deliver to staff.

4. You’re an active member of our Diversity &Inclusion Committee. What does diversity mean to you?

   Experiencing diversity is part of my everyday work at BaptistCare. The people I work with are the epitome of diversity – both clients and staff. At the end of the day we all care about and support each other. I feel cared and trusted by BaptistCare to be who I am (and to even get Tour the Otter out for events!)

5. Do you have a motto/favourite saying?

   Can I have two?

   Mahatma Gandhi – “If you don’t ask, you don’t get.”

   I’ve never been afraid to ask questions or propose ideas. All the opportunities I’ve been lucky enough to experience would not have happened if I didn’t ask.

   Frank N. Furter – “Don’t dream it, be it.”

   Much like Gandhi’s motto, its’ about having the confidence to not just have big ideas, but to try and bring them to life, no matter how ‘out there’ they are.

6. So, have you and Tour the Otter been in the BaptistCare parade for 3 years now or was this his first outing on behalf of BaptistCare?

   I have worn Tour over the years, however, in the previous parades he has only just been a head, paws and tail. This year was the debut of his feet, legs and body! He has always unofficially represented BaptistCare each year, but there’s never been any objections, only compliments, so going with the flow, I’ve kept up the tradition.

7. What’s it like wearing Tour the Otter? Do you get lots of attention?

   I enjoy wearing him although usually it’s only for special occasions such as parades, events or gatherings. I prefer to wear him in winter, too, because Otter’s suit can get quite warm in the summer. The attention I got at the parade was mostly positive, some small children were a little bit scared but most of them loved him!