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The Award recognises outstanding trainees and apprentices who have exhibited exceptional commitment and abilities in their role and showcase excellence in overcoming challenges throughout their time in the workplace.

Council Spokesperson for Finance, Corporate Services and Business Strategy Councillor Ian Rasmussen said it was fantastic to see another Council employee recognised for excellence in their field.

“It’s the people that make the Western Downs so wonderful, and it’s so encouraging to see another outstanding trainee recognised across Queensland and northern New South Wales for their commitment to their role,” Cr Rasmussen said.

“Council offers a range of career pathway opportunities designed to grow skills across a variety of professions, and AFL SportsReady is focused on giving our region’s First Nations residents a competitive edge in the workforce.

“Nicole has not only completed a qualification with Council over the past 12 months, she has al so gained full time employment with Council as a Library Services Officer which is a great outcome.”

Nicole Egel completed a Certificate 3 in Business as part of her Traineeship with Council and was officially recognised at a remote graduation and awards ceremony held on Thursday 28 April.

The 39-year-old mother of six said it was amazing to hear she was announced this year’s AFL SportsReady First Nations Trainee of the Year.

“Because I have been out of the workforce for nearly 20 years raising my children, I knew I needed experience to get back out there in the workforce, and this provided the perfect opportunity to do that,” Miss Egel said.

“The traineeship program has given me so much, and my advice to anyone thinking about is to go for it and never hold back.”

AFL SportsReady is a not-for-profit company dedicated helping young Australians develop careers through traineeships, cadetships, direct employment and educational opportunities.

Council has supported eight trainees since first partnering with AFL SportsReady.