Council welcomes trainees and apprentices across the Western Downs

As part of its renown Early Career program, Western Downs Regional Council has welcomed 14 young trainees and apprentices this month helping kickstart the careers of residents across the region.  

The cohort of trainees and apprentices have commenced their time with Council in Chinchilla, Dalby, Miles and Tara and will finish their traineeship or apprenticeship with industry experience and a nationally recognised qualification.  

This year’s intake of trainees and apprentices have accepted positions across several fields including Diesel Fitting, Civil Construction, Water Operations and Business. 

Council Spokesperson for Corporate Services Councillor Ian Rasmussen said these positions will give employees the perfect opportunity to earn and learn within our communities.  

“Many of our trainees and apprentices this year have just finished school so it’s great to see them excited to stay in the region to start fulltime work,” he said.   

“Our traineeships and apprenticeships offer employees valuable skills, hands–on experience and a qualification which in the long run will make them more employable for their future endeavours. 

“It’s great to be able to offer many different opportunities to our young people across the region.” 

After only one week of work Apprentice Diesel Fitter Jessie Munchow, 17, is excited to be learning more about Council.  

“I didn’t know Council had as many big machines as we do and actually serviced all of our own vehicles internally,” he said.  

“I’m really looking forward to working on the bigger machinery, that’s where my interests are – in bigger things like graders, loaders and backhoes. In my opinion the bigger machines are where it’s at – the bigger the better. 

“I’m keen to get as much experience as I possibly can and my end goal is to get my qualification, forklift license and other little tickets like that which can push me forward to be more employable after my apprenticeship.”  

Council is also currently in the process of finalising three more traineeships for people with disabilities.  

Western Downs Regional Council Media Office 07 4679 4265