Travis was born with down syndrome, an illness typically associated with physical growth delays and mild to moderate intellectual disability. But for the 19-year-old Bowning boy, it is something that has driven him forward, not held him back. 

“Travis went through the public school systems for both his primary and high school education,” mother Cindy Davis said. 

“He has had great opportunities in work experience and in his education.” 

Yet Mrs Davis is disappointed at the lack of opportunities outside of volunteer programs that are available for her son and is calling on Yass Valley businesses to show more support to people with disabilities. 

Travis wants to work outside on the land or as a laborer, yet has been unable to find work locally, managing to pick up work only in Goulburn. 

“He now travels the 80 kilometres on Monday’s until Tuesday to work each week,” Mrs Davis explained. 

“It makes it difficult for him to stay at home and get the support he needs.”

Mrs Davis is hoping to change this trend to encourage more local businesses to take on workers similar to her son. 

“It’s not just about Travis, but it is great for the employer also,” she continued. 

“There is a lot of support services out there for businesses that take on workers with a disability.

“Working locally would give Travis a really great chance, but he is also a great asset to any employer.” 

Travis will continue to look for work around the Yass Valley and hopes that he can be an advocate for people with disabilities in the Yass Valley workplace.