Local apprentices to help build Woorabinda’s future

First Nations apprentices from Woorabinda are beginning new careers in the trades while helping deliver important projects in their own community.

Woorabinda Aboriginal Shire Council has launched a new apprenticeship initiative with support from Mas National. Local First Nations people will gain nationally recognised trade qualifications while employed by Council.

The first intake includes apprentices across carpentry, plumbing, painting and decorating and automotive, with some having already commenced and others due to begin during November.

The initiative will see seven trade apprentices contribute to the Council’s residential housing project, helping build 22 new homes in community.

The project brings together Woorabinda Aboriginal Shire Council, Mas National, MRAEL and registered training organisations Major Training and CQ University.

Mas National Apprenticeship Consultant Larn Williams said the project is about creating sustainable, long-term career pathways for local people while contributing to the prosperity of community.

“Starting an apprenticeship is a significant step, and having the right support around an apprentice is crucial,” Miss Williams said. “Mas National is implementing Allied Health and mentoring support, while MRAEL has been engaged as a GTO to provide further support for the apprentices and Council.”

“What makes this particularly exciting is the opportunity for local people to develop skills and qualifications while contributing directly to their local community. This way, they can become role models for community and create a lasting legacy.”

Woorabinda Aboriginal Shire Council Human Resource Manager Cindy Warcon has been fundamental in the development of this initiative.

“These apprentices are not only building new skills, but they are also helping build a stronger future for Woorabinda,” Miss Warcon said. “Our community has talented people who just need a little support to succeed and we are incredibly proud to see local people taking up these opportunities.

“The team will gain valuable qualifications while working close to home and contributing to projects that will benefit Woorabinda for generations to come. We hope this is the beginning of many more pathways that empower our people and strengthen our community.”

The apprentices met on 13^th October with Council and Mas National to formally accept their employment contracts and begin the apprenticeship process.

An apprentice induction and sign-up session was held on 29 October, bringing the apprentices together with representatives from Council, Mas National, MRAEL and Major Training to sign their training contracts and meet the team supporting them and their supervisors.

Further initiatives are planned with Woorabinda Aboriginal Shire Council and Mas National to create pathways into a broader range of qualifications and career opportunities for community.

About Mas National

Mas National is an Apprentice Connect Australia Provider, supporting apprentices and employers throughout the apprenticeship journey, from getting started to ongoing support. Mas also provides personalised mentoring and Allied Health wellbeing support to help people overcome barriers, stay engaged and succeed in traineeships and apprenticeships.