Job opportunities on display

BUSINESSES, groups and employers came together this week to showcase their offerings to the community as part of the BGT Jobs and Training Expo.

Over 70 organisations were spread across Barkly Square and the Goods Shed, and the event organiser Emma Hart said it allowed groups and attendees to get to know each other.

“It’s to bring lots of community organisations and industry and training together so people can see the opportunities that are available to them,” she said.

“We’ve got a range of businesses like MaxiTrans, McDonald’s, UFS to training and job providers like WDEA Work and even councils and job actives.

“It’s not just business coming through the doors but it’s also a chance for the groups to network and interact.”

The expo took place on Tuesday, 7 June and Wednesday, 8 June with many groups holding seminars on topics like hospitality, gender obstacles and apprenticeships.

Barkly Square’s offerings included cooking and barista workshops, a tour from the Tool Library, and a welding demonstration from BGT.

A MaxiTrans trailer was exhibited outside the Goods Shed opposite a crop cruiser on loan by Goldacres.

Christian Hayward is two years out of high school and checked out the Goods Shed exhibitors for career options.

“I think there’s a lot of range here to help me look at what I’m going to do for my future,” he said.

“The exhibitions aren’t letting any stones unturned in letting me know what they’re about, and I can see they’re around and trying to help people like me out with what they want to do.”

Ms Hart said the event was a great way to help the city’s organisations bounce back after COVID.

“A lot of companies are looking for people to fill job vacancy positions which does seem to be a big thing currently,” she said.

“This is a chance for them to let people know what they’ve got and how they might be able to help fill that gap.”