Expo to open mining employment doors

Sunshine Coast Council has partnered with the State Government and major mining and gas companies to host a one-day job expo here on the Coast.

The Queensland Mining and Gas Jobs Expo will be held at The Events Centre at Caloundra on Friday, 21 October. Its focus will be on providing information about the types of jobs and career options available in the resources sector now as well as in the future.

Mayor Bob Abbot said the expo was a perfect opportunity for interested Coast workers to get the real story on what is available in the burgeoning sectors.

"Employers will be on hand to provide job seekers with information on current job opportunities, the range of jobs and careers available in the resources sector, industry pay, conditions and lifestyle, and future job opportunities," he said.

"Companies are looking for skilled and semi-skilled workers, particularly with skills as diesel fitters, drillers and drilling assistants, welders, process plant operators, metal fitters and machinists."

"It is a reality that the demand for workers in mining and gas industry sectors will continue to grow and it would be churlish of us to overlook the opportunities that it will provide for some Coast residents to get their foot in the door to steady employment.

Economic Development Portfolio Councillor Lew Brennan said the Sunshine Coast welcomes the opportunity to stage the expo and contribute to the current and future development of the Queensland resources sector.

"While the traditional sectors of tourism, retail and construction are important for the Coast, we must do everything we can to grow investment in other industries, diversify the regional economy and secure employment opportunities for the people who live here," he said.

"Given the advantages this region offers – particularly the Sunshine Coast Airport, the University of the Sunshine Coast, one of the leading TAFE institutes in the country and a highly skilled and adaptable workforce – the Coast is well-placed to support the resources sector."

Jobs details will be available at the expo for skilled workers who could easily transition into resources sector employment, and resources sector training providers will also be on hand to outline the training options available to pursue a career in the mining or gas industry.

To register your interest visit www.skills.qld.gov.au or call 1800 773 048.