Graduating trainees take out State awards

Two young achievers have been acknowledged for their traineeship success, each receiving an award at the AFL SportsReady awards ceremony in Brisbane recently.

Ally Engle took out the Chris Johnson Cup award and Merranda Poole received the Host Plus Rising Star award. Merranda said that they had no idea that they had been nominated for awards.

“The first I knew about the awards was when I saw my name on the nominations list, so of course I was thrilled to know that I’ve been doing a good job,” she said.

“The awards evening was fun, plus I had the chance to meet with some of the AFL team that have helped mentor me during my traineeship.”

Both ladies commenced Certificate III in Business traineeships in conjunction with the Western Downs Regional Council, working and studying over the past 12 months.

Ally says that the traineeship has set her up well for the future.

“Working initially with the Facilities team in Dalby really built my confidence in administration, I worked really hard to complete my study units a couple of months early as I was eager to move into a more challenging role within the Business Support team,” she said.

“This role had allowed me to be more hands-on to assist the Project officers with specific projects.

“I’ve enjoyed being part of a very busy team and I’m looking forward to learning so much more about the large region that the Utilities department looks after, working as an Infrastructure Services Administration Officer.”

Merranda says that a highlight of the traineeship was being able to put into practice the things that she was learning every day.

“I appreciated the opportunity to ask questions about my studies while at work, the staff have been very friendly and supportive right from the beginning,” she said.

“Winning this award has given me more confidence in my work and I appreciate the opportunities that I’ve received, both from Council and AFL SportsReady.”

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh says that he is very proud of Council’s youngest achievers.

“Ally and Merranda were up against 80 or so other trainees from across Queensland and Northern New South Wales, and it is very pleasing that the Western Downs took two of only four awards offered on the night,” he said.

“Both young ladies have excelled in their work over the past year and have now taken on positions with Council since finishing their traineeships.”

Merranda received a trophy at the awards evening, and Ally has been invited to participate in a week-long program of events between Cairns and Bamaga at the tip of Cape York for the Chris Johnson Cup tournament.

— Ends — Media Contact: Melanie Coultas Senior Media & Communications Officer 0419 048 594