AT RISK MT ISA YOUTH GET BACK ON TRACK

A horsemanship program conducted by Mt Isa Institute of TAFE for at risk young people will be extended to Doomadgee in October following the success of a pilot program in Mt Isa.

Minister for Education and Training, Rod Welford, said the program reflected the Government’s commitment to providing education and training for all young people.

“The Mt Isa pilot began in May this year and has had great results,” Mr Welford said.

“Three of the seven young Indigenous men taking part have successfully completed the program and are employed as first year stockmen at Calton Hills Station.

“They will be under the wing of an experienced Aboriginal stockman. The other four students have yet to complete the course,” Mr Welford said.

Teacher Brad Snow said the majority of the learning activities were undertaken on site, with some time spent on campus.

“Students live and study on a working station that is 10 km south of MountIsa,” Mr Snow said.

“They learn how to work and communicate effectively in the industry, including how to operate in isolated and remote situations.

“The students are trained to feed and ride horses, care for equipment, maintain properties, carry out natural area restoration, identify, mark, muster and move livestock, and provide first aid.”

Mr Snow said TAFE appreciated the invaluable mentoring and tutorial support provided by Patrick Donavan, a member of the Kalkadoon Tribal Council.

Program participants Benjamin Fewquandie, Brendan King and Tyrone Mullins who are now working as first year stockmen, said they had thoroughly enjoyed the program.

Benjamin said he believed he had limited options before choosing the TAFE program.

“I enjoyed the welding and fencing the most, and the support provided by the teacher was really valuable,” he said.

Anyone wanting further information about the upcoming Horsemanship program can telephone (07) 4744 9999.

Media contact: Greg Milne or Marnie Stitz on 32371000