Apprentice And Trainee Program Aims To Boost Workforce

Next year, Mackay Regional Council will welcome six new employees through its doors as apprentice and trainees.

The Apprentice and Trainee Intake program is now taking applications for a variety of roles across the organisation.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Apprentice and Trainee program offered an opportunity for successful applicants to gain entry level pathways not only into council but the wider workforce.

“Council is a fantastic place to start your career and we encourage people from all walks of life to consider taking on a role in our organisation,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We have a variety of roles available, from libraries to mechanical and horticulture,” he said.

“Our apprenticeships and traineeships often lead to full time work at council and we are very proud to say we have many of our past apprentices and trainees still working here even 10 years later.

“Council prides itself on its apprentice and trainee program as it is vital for long-term workforce planning, helping to transfer knowledge from one generation to the next and building skills and capacity, not just for council but for our community.”

Civil Construction trainee Luke Pain said his traineeship has enabled him to learn a wide variety of skills.

“I’m doing a Certificate II in Civil Construction and am also learning concreting, which includes form setting, curbing, slabs, driveways and footpaths,” Mr Pain said.

“I have had so much support from the team here at council and I have really enjoyed my time here so far,” he said.

Former Horticulture trainee Tahni Cross said council had provided her with an opportunity for a career change.

“For me it’s been a great way to try something different - to transition to a role outside of the office and broaden my skillset,” Ms Cross said.

“I did a Certificate III in Horticulture at council’s Nursery and then moved to Natural Areas on the Beach Crew and now I am a full-time Parks Maintenance Officer at the Botanic Gardens,” she said.

“I strongly encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship or traineeship to apply for one of the council roles.”

In 2025, council is offering the following Apprentice and Trainee opportunities:

- 2 x Apprentice Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanic.

- Horticultural Trainee.

- Civil Construction Trainee.

- Live Production and Staging Trainee.

- Library Services Trainee.

Council encourages applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, anyone re-entering the workforce, those from a non-English speaking background, individuals with a disability, impairment or long-term condition, school leavers or an adult worker wishing to change careers or gain new skills.

Applications for the 2025 Apprentice and Trainee Intake are now open, more information on the positions available can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/traineeintake

Applications will close October 25.

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Former Horticulture trainee Tahni Cross now works full time as a Parks Maintenance Officer at the Botanic Gardens. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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