Bright future beckons for bright sparks

FOURTEEN new apprentices and trainees, about to embark on a bright career in Queensland’s electricity industry, were officially presented with their work boots, hard hats and safety gear at a special induction ceremony in Townsville today.

Energy Minister Mark Bailey said the new recruits were chosen from a quality field of applicants, which meant they were the best of the best.

“I commend Ergon Energy for recognising and promoting the home-grown talent in their midst. The northern contingent joins a talented team of 61 new Ergon Energy recruits from across the state.

“Once the new recruits have completed their inductions and initial training, they will return to their home depots in 30 locations across regional Queensland, from Thursday Island to Quilpie,” Mr Bailey said.

The Minister said the new Labor government remains firmly committed to protecting the jobs of Queensland workers at a time when jobs and job security are more important than ever.

“These new apprenticeships and traineeships also demonstrate our commitment to retaining the front-line staff we need now and in the future, so that together, we can continue to maintain a safe, reliable and affordable electricity supply for all Queenslanders,” he said.

Mr Bailey again commended Ergon Energy on its efforts to restore power supplies to households and businesses as quickly as possible following the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Marcia.

“The electricity network sustained significant damage and as soon as it was safe to do so, Ergon Energy crews were out and about doing a difficult job in difficult conditions. They rose to the challenge and were ready to face the worst that nature had thrown at the electricity network,” he said.

Member for Thuringowa, Aaron Harper, who also attended today’s induction ceremony, praised the efforts of local electricity workers who joined the 900-strong workforce in cyclone-affected areas.

“Rocky and Yeppoon copped a battering from the cyclone and our local Ergon Energy workers leapt into action, and got on with the job that they do best – safely restoring power supplies to affected households and businesses.” Mr Harper said.

Ergon Energy Chief Executive Ian McLeod congratulated this year’s apprentices on their success in attaining a position from a quality field of applicants and wished them a rewarding career.

“The apprentices come from a diverse range of backgrounds, including seven Indigenous applicants, a record 11 females breaking into the traditionally male-dominated roles and a good proportion of mature-age candidates, as well as school-leavers,” he said.

“The newest recruits will gain skills such as communications technicians, distribution linespersons, systems electricians and transmission linespersons.

“Some of the new recruits will embark on tertiary studies for either an associate degree or advanced diploma qualification while undertaking their usual apprenticeship training,” Mr McLeod said.

Media contact:   Minister’s Office 0438 768 734