Fostering a future workforce

LISMORE’S high school students got the opportunity to road test what it would be like to work on the council at an event designed to showcase the pathways a career in local government can offer.

The Regional Industry Education Partnerships program gives students a hands-on introduction to the diverse and essential roles within the Lismore Council.

It not only helps attract a future workforce, but it also builds connections between the Lismore City Council and future ratepayers.

Rebecca Sproule from Lismore City Council said it was a great opportunity for students to connect with their council and form positive experiences.

“It’s really important to put these opportunities in front of young people and say ‘Everything that you want to do is achievable here at home’.

“For our local economy and our local growth as a city, it’s important those 18-25-year-olds stay in town.”

Forty-one students from Nimbin Central School, St John’s College Woodlawn, Summerland Christian School, and The Rivers Secondary College Kadina Campus participated in the Student Showcase event.

Lismore City Council General Manager Jon Gibbons said it was more than an educational outing.

“Today is a glimpse into a world of local government operations that students and the public – do not often see,” he said.

“Through interactive sessions, students will delve into the sophisticated workings of community services, including waste management, fleet and open spaces, water and wastewater, law enforcement, plus roads and engineering.”

Student Anthony Sandrk is in Year 10 at Nimbin Central School and said it had been an informative day.

“It was a pretty fun day, I’ve learnt something about council. It’s given me some ideas about careers,”

he said.