School-based traineeship takes out indigenous award

THE partnership of Warner Village Theme Parks, Sea World Resort and Water Park and Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation has scooped up an award at the 2009 Reconciliation Awards for Business for the Indigenous School-Based Traineeship Program.

Premier Anna Bligh praised the awards and highlighted the importance of Queenslanders who paving the way for a future that embraces the values of reconciliation.

“The award winners demonstrate their commitment to reconciliation in a range of industries from Qantas Airways, as Australia’s largest airline, to a traineeship program offered to Indigenous youth from remote communities,” says Bligh.

The Indigenous School-Based Traineeship Program offers traineeships to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student from communities across southeast Queensland and as far north as Bundaberg.

Commencing in January 2006 with 14 trainees, the program was extended to an intake of 33 students from rural and remote Queensland communities. The program provides an opportunity for students to learn from each other in a supportive environment, while encouraging them to become role models in their families, communities and to their
peers across the State.

“I congratulate all the award winners for their exceptional achievements and contribution to reconciliation in Queensland,” says Bligh.