Bright sparks embark on new careers in the power industry

Townsville: Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson joined some of the brightest and best of more than 100 new recruits about to embark on keenly-sought after careers in Queensland’s power industry.

Minister Wilson was in Townsville with the Premier, her Cabinet Ministers and heads of government departments for the Bligh Government’s 13^th Community Cabinet Meeting.

“It’s about bridging the gap between George Street, Brisbane and George Street, Cluden,” Mr Wilson said.

“It’s an opportunity for the state’s key decision makers to talk face to face with the local community, and to listen and learn about local issues.

“One of the most pressing issues in the north is jobs. Companies around the world are shedding staff.

“What we’re seeing is the human face of the global economic crisis and the harsh reality that we are indeed in tough economic times. Townsville is not alone.

“The Bligh Government has taken swift action to help stem further job losses. We will work in partnership with industry and the unions and we will ride through this storm together,” he said.

“Our hard work is already paying off. Today, I have the privilege of welcoming the newest recruits to Queensland’s power industry.

“In the face of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, our government-owned corporations remain committed to providing job opportunities for Queenslanders.

“46 apprentices will this week embark on new jobs with Ergon Energy across regional Queensland.

“Around half the new recruits are school leavers, young people who are not only starting a new job, but beginning a new career in Queensland’s fast-growing power industry.

Minister Wilson said the government-owned energy companies were taking on 113 new apprentices and a number of new trainees.

40 apprentices will join Energex in the first intake for 2009, with more recruits expected to join the power provider later in the year.

Ergon is also looking for apprentices to fill roles in Cloncurry, Roma, Murgon, Proston and St George later in the year.

“The new apprentices and trainees were chosen from a wide field of applicants, so Ergon and Energex were able to recruit the best of the best,” Mr Wilson said.

Member for Mundingburra, Lindy Nelson-Carr welcomed the newest Townsville recruits.

“Their training will open up exciting opportunities in the electricity industry and the skills they learn will be put to good use right here in the region,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“This is about responsible governments planning for the future.

“We’re creating real jobs and opportunities for people in the power industry to help meet the challenges of the fastest-growing state in Australia,” she said.

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