A Fraser Coast Story of Local Commitment
Across the Fraser Coast, you may have noticed a new sticker popping up on store fronts – a small sign with a big message. The Proud to Have One initiative, led by Jobs Fraser Coast, celebrates businesses committed to hiring and training local apprentices and trainees. More than just a logo, it’s a symbol of the commitment to invest in the region’s future, creating opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and build a career locally.
For the community, this sticker serves as a reminder of where our support can make a lasting impact. You might spot it on the back of a work ute, a toolbox, an esky or a website. By choosing to shop at these businesses, you are contributing to the future of our local economy, encouraging young talent to stay and grow their skills close to family and community. It’s a sign reinforcing the commitment towards building a skilled workforce right here in the Fraser Coast.
“We are always looking to train and employ local talent, as we see the importance of teaching our skills to the younger generation through apprenticeships. I am proud to have two apprentices currently and seeking a third in the new year”, comments Dale Newberry, owner of Kawungan Quality Meats and a long-time employer of apprentices on the Fraser Coast.
Apprenticeship completion rates in the Fraser Coast, as part of broader Queensland trends, face challenges. National data shows a 55% completion rate for apprenticeships after four years*.
Regional factors such as job stability, employer support, and access to training programs contribute to these outcomes. However, local initiatives like this one aim to boost retention and completion rates through providing more specialised support, promotion, and incentive.
Kirsty Hill, Workforce Development Manager at Jobs Fraser Coast, encourages any business interested in taking on an apprentice or trainee to reach out. With more than 30 years’ experience, Kirsty has strong working relationships with the local Australian Apprenticeships Support Network providers, collaborating closely with them to help businesses navigate the process.
Her role involves sharing local employment opportunities and apprenticeship pathways, as well as supporting people—especially students—in making informed career decisions.
“I’m here to guide and support businesses through the process,” she says, noting that it’s a team effort among those committed to growing local opportunities for apprentices and trainees.
“We want to create a collaborative team of businesses who connect around a shared purpose – to showcase the great outcomes of hiring apprentices and trainees.” Kirsty elaborates. The initiative creates a sense of unity among businesses, with each participant playing a part in a broader mission to foster growth and resilience in the region.
It’s a practical step forward, building a network that strengthens the local economy and creates a stronger, more resilient Fraser Coast. For more information, to join the initiative, or to connect with other local businesses shaping the Fraser Coast’s future, visit https://www.jobsfrasercoast.com.au/proud-to-have-one
*Department of Employment, Small Business and Training – Apprentice and trainee participation activity data and statistics. www.desbt.qld.gov.au
The Jobs Fraser Coast Regional Jobs Committee is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government.
