Former student gains apprenticeship at coal mine

Former Brisbane Water Secondary College indigenous student Ben Perkins, 18, has been taken on as an electrical apprentice by a company working on the Wallarah Two coal mine north of Wyong.

Mr Grant Binns, the owner of Elektron, said: "Even though Ben only started last month he is doing really well and has a great attitude which will go toward ensuring a successful apprenticeship".

At school, Ben initially had interest in furniture making until his careers advisor suggested he complete a Certificate II in Construction Pathways.

It was on completion of this certificate that he then decided to embark on a career as an electrician.

The indigenous apprenticeship was offered under a "mutual advancement convenant" agreement between Wallarah 2 Coal and Guringai Tribal Link Aboriginal Corporation established in 2015.

It will be administered by Central Coast Group Training.

Wallarah Two environment and community manager Mr Peter Smith welcomed Ben recently at the office of Central Coast Group Training.

He said the project was proud to support the growth of youth employment on the Central Coast.

"We welcome both Ben and his host employer Elektron to the benefits of the scheme and wish

them every continued success" Mr Smith said.

Ben said he was excited for his future and will commence his TAFE course in semester two at Wyong.

SOURCE:

Media release, 10 Apr 2018

Peter Smith, Wallarah Two