Nineteen recruits embarking on new careers have joined one of the city's largest employers, bolstering the civic workforce dedicated to growing Townsville.
As part of its ongoing commitment to nurturing local talent and upskilling the city's pool of professionals, Townsville City Council has today welcomed 11 apprentices and eight trainees to its ranks.
The new starters will be assigned to various work areas and learn across a wide variety of disciplines, including the Animal Care and Adoption Centre, Fleet Services and Laboratory Services.
Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto welcomed the cohort and said it was an exciting time to join the city's 1,700-strong workforce.
"As Mayor, I am very proud to welcome our new employees as they start a new chapter of their work lives – we are stoked to have you on board contributing to the growth of our city in the years to come," Cr Dametto said.
"In their new and varied roles, these recruits will have the opportunity to learn from some of Townsville's most talented and experienced professionals and tradespeople, and to see the work they do transpire across the city they work and live in.
"Council has a long-standing history of investing in and growing North Queensland's future workforce through this and similar programs, which is made possible through the State Government's Skilling Queenslanders for Work Program."
The Apprenticeships and Traineeships program, run over the last decade, provides work opportunities across a variety of operational and professional roles, including business, animal care and trades.
Laboratory Services trainee Ella Rucci said she was stoked to commence her career with Council.
"The job looked really interesting when I looked at it online and I liked the fact that it was local and I could learn and earn at the same time," she said.
"I'm not too sure what my days will entail just yet, but I'm keen to find out – I am sure there will be plenty of hands-on experience and learning every day."
Mayor Dametto wished the new starters all the best.
"As Mayor, and on behalf of my fellow councillors and the entire team at Council, I would like to wish our newest staff members all the best for this next chapter in their careers," Cr Dametto said.
"We are looking forward to seeing our new recruits succeed in their education, training and work endeavours, and in helping us grow and build the Townsville of tomorrow."
