Western Downs Regional Council has been recognised as the Large Employer of the Year for the second consecutive year at the prestigious Queensland Training Awards regional finals, acknowledging the organisation’s commitment to innovation and excellence in education and training.
The Queensland Training Awards aim to celebrate and reward individuals and organisations that demonstrate outstanding achievements in best practice and innovative approaches to vocational education and training.
The event, held in Toowoomba on Friday 14 July, brought together finalists from various industries across the Darling Downs and South-West Queensland, highlighting their accomplishments and dedication.
Council’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Fletcher expressed pride in the organisation’s investment in training and education for its workforce.
“At Western Downs Regional Council, it’s the people that make it and our success is directly linked to the talent and skills of our people,” Mr Fletcher said.
“By providing training opportunities, we ensure that we have experienced professionals equipped to deliver exceptional service to our community.”
Mr Fletcher further emphasised Council’s commitment to attracting and developing local talent through training programmes, such as the renowned ‘Kickstart your Career’ initiative.
“Since 2018, we have employed 109 trainees and apprentices, including disability and school-based trainees, with an impressive success rate. Over 90% of our trainees and apprentices have secured employment within Council or the local community.”
Applications for the Kickstart programme will reopen in September for the 2024 intake, offering residents the unique opportunity to gain valuable on-the-job training and experience.
Councillor Ian Rasmussen, spokesperson for Finance, Corporate Services and Business Strategy, expressed his delight at Council’s recognition, as well as the achievement of fellow Western Downs winners.
“We are very proud of Council’s innovative regional approach to training and we would also like to extend our congratulations to the other finalists from the Western Downs, especially Community Training Initiative of the Year winner, Chinchilla Community Centre, for its Skilling Queenslanders for Work programme,” Cr Rasmussen said.
“We wish our Organisational Development team and other representatives from the Western Downs the best of luck at the State Finals in Brisbane on 9 September.”
