Bundaberg Regional Council is leading by example to provide jobs and training opportunities for local young people.
Chief executive officer Steve Johnston said Council was currently adding 22 trainees across the organisation in departments including parks and gardens, water services, community services, development planning and communications.
“This is an increase on last year’s number of 13 and demonstrates Council’s commitment to helping address youth unemployment in the region,” Mr Johnston said.
“Council is utilising Federal Government funding assistance from the Youth Jobs Path program and the State Government’s First Start Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.”
Mr Johnston said the traineeships were giving a step-up to young people in a competitive job market.
Trainees get first start with Council
Information technology has always been an interest of 17-year-old Ethan McMillan.
“I chose subjects at school based on IT and when this traineeship came up, I knew Council would be a great place to learn new skills,” he said.
Moncrieff administration trainee, Carissa Johansson, said she was already gaining a good range of skills.
“I am particularly enjoying the element of graphic design and I’ll be able to take the administration experience with me for jobs in the future,” she said.
Michael Taylor had previously worked elsewhere in procurement and said he was pleased he could take that experience to his traineeship in strategic supply.
Abbie Raines was already studying a Certificate III in business administration when the traineeship in people, safety and culture was offered.
“I’m happy to be getting the practical experience needed to support my studies,” Abbie said.
“Hopefully working at Council will set me up for a lifelong career in business administration.”
Council traineeship leads to full time work for Alex
Alex Bion has experienced first-hand the benefit of a Council traineeship. He was given a full time position after the completion of his horticulture traineeship earlier this year.
“My traineeship opened a lot of different branches. I am going to be able to pursue my love for nature,” Alex said.
“Working with people with a lot more knowledge it is sort of easier to grab on to and the more people you work with the more knowledgeable you get.
“Mostly I have learned that the Bundaberg Region has lots to offer.”
Alex is now looking forward to future study options as part of his new full time career with the parks and gardens team.
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