SCHWARTEN CONGRATULATES LOCAL QBUILD APPRENTICES

Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten today congratulated an up-and-coming Charters Towers tradies Katie-Mariae Morrin and Nathan Vickers on being offered apprenticeships with QBuild.

Mr Schwarten said Katie-Mariae and Nathan were two of 101 new apprentices and trainees taking up a position with the State Government’s construction and maintenance organisation in 2007.

He said the duo were selected from more than 2,500 people from across the state to take up the position.

“QBuild is one of the largest employers of construction and engineering industry apprentices as part of its substantial apprenticeship program,” Mr Schwarten said.

“This State Government training initiative is a real investment in the future of our state's building industry as many QBuild apprentices eventually find work in the private sector.

”QBuild apprentices like Katie-Mariae and Nathan will gain experience in the maintenance of government buildings, including schools as well as helping construct new building projects throughout their region.”

Mr Schwarten said Katie-Mariae would undertake a painting apprenticeship while Nathan will undertake a carpentry apprenticeship.

“This week sees our future tradespeople starting careers ranging from carpentry and plumbing to the ancient craft of stonemasonry,” Mr Schwarten said.

“The QBuild Apprenticeship Program represents a large investment in our state's regional skills base by providing opportunities for young Queenslanders in areas that have limited local employment prospects.”

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