When we caught up with mature age trainee John Schafer, he was busy cutting down trees and spraying for noxious weeds. John’s new found career in land care management is not too distant from his previous volunteer work at the local neighbourhood centre in Monto.
“Over the years I have done a lot of volunteer work in gardening but this is my first full time job. Being a mature aged person it is always difficult to find work but I am thrilled to be working now while gaining a qualification at the same time.
“We’ve been helping with rehabilitation work, cutting down trees and spraying for noxious weeds in the Monto area. I’ve always been interested in Landcare and I’m pleased that I can make a contribution to the place where I live and work,” John said.
John is just six months into his traineeship studying for a Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management.
John was able to take on his traineeship with the assistance of the QGC Strengthening Local Workforces Program.
The QGC Strengthening Local Workforces Program was launched in February 2012 with QGC partnering with BUSY At Work to match apprentices and trainees with businesses outside the coal gas industry in regional Queensland. The program provides mentoring and coaching to help boost retention and completion rates.
John’s supervisor, Glenn Baker said John was fitting in well with the team and always willing to learn new things.
“With the traineeship we operate at a grassroots level to encourage sustainable practices for landholders. John has been a great asset and through his traineeship he will learn skills in tree cutting, wetland assessment, feral animal control and fire management,” Glenn said.
Glenn is highly respected in the Monto community for his dedication and hard work in supporting and promoting Landcare in the region.
As President of North Burnett Landcare Group Inc, Glenn has helped in the development of the Monto Botanic Gardens and redeveloping the Monto Scout Hall into the area’s environmental hub.
BUSY At Work CEO, Paul Miles said it was a credit to John to be able to secure full time employment through his traineeship.
“Through the support of the QGC Strengthening Local Workforces Program and dedicated people like Glenn Baker we have witnessed a positive outcome in Monto. Not only has John been able to secure full time employment, he is also working in an area very much suited to his interest and abilities.
“This type of commitment sets a great example for mature age people looking to make a strong contribution to society and the place where they live,” Mr Miles said.
Image: John has been busy contributing to landcare improvements around Monto
MEDIA CONTACT: Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
0438 173 960 leanne.macnamara@busyatwork.com.au
