Dalby @ Work

In yet another show of Dalby’s progressive attitude towards town growth, a new program is underway to train 75 local people in the skills they need to enter the workforce.

The Dalby @ Work Project is funded through the Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative and is managed by the Dalby Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The project will intake three groups of 25 people over the coming year to train for the workplace. Participants can nominate for training in a choice of areas including rural, retail and administration or engineering and manufacturing.

Training will take a total of 12 weeks, consisting of an initial 2 weeks ‘get set for work’ preparation then 3 weeks of generic skills training through the Agricultural College during which participants will learn about Workplace Health & Safety, communication in the workplace and information technology. This is followed by 5 weeks course study at TAFE in their chosen field which should see the participant completing 4 to 5 modules towards a Certificate level, and finally 2 weeks of unpaid vocational employment at any one of a dozen local businesses to re-enforce the skills learnt.

Tom Steverink has been released by Dingo Australia to act as the Dalby @ Work project co-ordinator for its 12 month duration, indicating the company’s generous support of the community.

“Through providing training and assistance to people who have previously found it difficult to enter the workforce we hope to aid in both their personal growth and in managing the development phase that Dalby is going through. Dingo supports me in my role as project co-ordinator as they recognise the potential outcomes it could have for the community,” said Tom.

Suitable candidates for training include single parents, indigenous youth, women looking to re-enter the workforce, low-skilled young people and anyone currently working under 20 hours a week.

The program has already provided employment for Sandra Challis, the trainee assisting Tom in co-ordinating the initiative.

Through the Skills Formation Strategy project, the Dalby Chamber has been working on proactive measures to address skills shortages and associated challenges in our region.

 “I’d encourage both businesses and candidates to contact the Dalby @ Work office to find out how to get involved with the project,” said Paul Hodda, President of the Dalby Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

For further information and to take part in the Dalby @ Work project contact Tom Steverink or Sandra Challis on phone (07) 4669 8849, email dalbyatworkproject@bigpond.com or visit their office in the ‘Iona’ building, 169 Cunningham Street, Dalby.  

Contact
Tom Steverink
Project Coordinator
Mobile: 0417 629 978

Sandra Challis
Project Administration
Phone: (07) 4669 8849