City of Newcastle (CN) is offering to help nine people take their first career step with applications now open for its annual intake of apprentices and trainees.
Recruitment began this month for a range of early career positions, with roles available across various sectors including environment, horticulture, civil construction, painting and decorating, business administration, and customer experience.
Two positions have been identified for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as part of the Trainee and Apprentice program.
Newcastle Lord Mayor, Nuatali Nelmes said CN was committed to being a diverse, inclusive, and culturally welcoming employer of choice.
“We are investing in training and development to create safe employment pathways with equal opportunity as part of our efforts to encourage broad representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff across the organisation and in leadership roles,” Nuatali said.
Experienced Painting and Decorating Tradesperson, Garry Welsh knows first-hand how valuable CN’s Trainee and Apprentice program has been over the years.
A proud Wiradjuri man, Garry said it was pleasing to see positions identified for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“I got an apprenticeship with City of Newcastle in 1999 and then came back to work here for the better part of the last decade,” he said.
“It’s great to see such diversity and inclusiveness coming through this program, and I’m stoked to be in a position to be able to help others by mentoring them.
“Just seeing their enjoyment and happiness during the three or four years of their apprenticeship and then securing a full-time position makes it worthwhile.”
During his time at CN, Garry has revamped the city’s sporting fields, halls, libraries, and other public assets.
He said one job stood out from the others.
“Transforming Lambton Pool was my favourite job in the last five years. I painted the whole facility, including the seating, shelters, grandstands, and non-slip areas,” Garry said.
“It’s a very rewarding career, particularly when you see customers so happy with the end product.”
IMAGE | Painting and Decorating Tradesperson, Garry Welsh and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes (front) with apprentices (L-R) Nic Bourke, Kahli Mortimer, Conner West, and Jazmin Webber.
