Jobs Flow from Traveston Crossing Dam

More than 120 jobs for long term unemployed people could be created in the Mary Valley and Gympie region as a result of training and employment initiatives associated with the Traveston Crossing Dam the Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Paul Lucas said today.

Mr Lucas said $750,000 has been invested under the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative to give locals the chance to gain the skills required to work on the Traveston Crossing Dam project.

“Traveston Crossing Dam will not only play a vital role in delivering water security to Southeast Queensland but also provide life changing opportunities for the people of Gympie,” said Mr Lucas.

“The Bligh Government is committed to giving local people every chance to work on this project.

“The Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative will target people experiencing barriers preventing them from entering the workforce and provide them with the pre-employment skills needed to work on the dam project.

“Participants will gain hands on work experience, often combined with accredited training, to construct, upgrade and maintain community facilities under Community Job Plan projects.

“One project is already being rolled out to upgrade facilities at the Mary Valley State College, other opportunities include upgrades to railway stations and construction of recreational tracks and trails associated with the dam project.”

Constructing Traveston Crossing Dam will require a skilled workforce in the order of 500-600 people.

“It is well know that the Gympie area traditionally has a high unemployment rate compared to the state and national average, Traveston Crossing Dam will create real long term jobs,” said Mr Lucas.

“Not only are we providing a pathway for locals to develop the skills needed to work on the dam, this will also open up opportunities for jobs on other major infrastructure projects in the region.”

A “Training, Employment and Business Opportunities” initiative launched by dam proponent, Queensland Water Infrastructure Pty Ltd (QWI), last week provides locals with information on current, construction and future opportunities associated with the project, including a registration form for the Community Jobs Plan projects.

Other initiatives being rolled out included accredited training courses, such as construction blue cards and civil skills, and forums for local businesses to enhance their opportunities for work on the project.

Already, approximately 100 local suppliers have gained business opportunities associated with the dam, including property managers, accommodation providers, fencing contractors and plumbers.

They are part of a ready workforce of 720 businesses who have registered for opportunities.

Media enquiries: Matthew Klar 0437 435 223