SCHWARTEN CONGRATULATES LONGREACH QBUILD APPRENTICES

Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten today congratulated an up-and-coming Longreach tradies Craig Bowering and Kelly O’Connor on being offered an apprenticeship with Qbuild.

Mr Schwarten said Craig and Kelly were among 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 applicants.

“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 Craig and Kelly 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 Craig would undertake a carpentry apprenticeship while Kelly would undertake training in painting.

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

“The 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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