- Third group of trainees completes Ellendale-Bunuba Trainee Program
- Cook Government delivering strong outcomes through targeted investment in Aboriginal training
- A total of 16 participants have completed the program over the past three seasons
The Cook Government's investment in mine rehabilitation and training is delivering results in the Kimberley, with the Ellendale-Bunuba Trainee Program marking another milestone in building local skills and creating long-term jobs.
The program has now awarded its third set of nationally recognised qualifications, delivered as part of the efforts to rehabilitate the former Ellendale diamond mining lease.
Six trainees graduated this week, receiving a total of 12 National Certificates of Attainment for articulated truck and watercart operations. All are proud Bunuba people, the Traditional Owners of the land covering the Ellendale area.
With this year's six graduates, a total of 16 participants have now completed the program over the past three seasons, earning 69 nationally recognised certificates.
Beyond training and employment outcomes, the project has also achieved major environmental milestones. These include the decommissioning of the site's village camp and processing areas, stabilisation of constructed landforms and the construction of more than 5.4 kilometres of safety bunds around former pit voids.
The project is part of the Cook Government's Abandoned Mines Program, funded through the Mining Rehabilitation Fund and delivered in partnership with Aboriginal-owned mine rehabilitation company Buru Rehab.
On-ground works began in June 2023 and remain on track for completion by October 2025.
As stated by Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael:
"Congratulations to the latest group of trainees on their achievements through the Ellendale rehabilitation program.
"The Cook Government remains committed to working with industry and Traditional Owners to deliver best practice standards in mine rehabilitation across Western Australia.
"The Ellendale project shows how government-led mine closures can be approached in a way that delivers both environmental results and lasting community benefit.
"The success of the trainee program reflects strong local partnerships and the commitment of everyone involved."
Comments attributed to Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch:
"This is a great initiative that creates meaningful training and employment opportunities for the Bunuba people while also rehabilitating abandoned mine sites.
"I would like to congratulate the 16 participants for completing the program."
As stated by Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:
"This program offers trainees a pathway for future employment opportunities, which is a great economic outcome for the Kimberley.
"I wish the trainees all the best and congratulate them in the important role in rehabilitating the land and caring for Country."
