Treasurer and Minister for Employment and Economic Development
The Honourable Andrew Fraser

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Green Army skills to assist Bundaberg unemployed

A group of 20 jobseekers will gain skills and experience while helping to conserve Bundaberg’s natural environment as part of a Bligh Government Queensland Green Army project.

Treasurer and Minister for Employment and Economic Development Andrew Fraser said two groups of 10 people in Bundaberg would complete paid Green Army work placements through IMPACT Make Your Mark thanks to a $356,330 State Government grant.

“Both groups will work to enhance natural assets and increase environmental awareness in Bundaberg - one group for 20 weeks and the other for 24 weeks,” Mr Fraser said.

“Green Army projects help participants to gain valuable experience, complete accredited training and restore their self-confidence and motivation.

“Over the next three years, Queensland’s Green Army will fund 2300 work placements and 700 green traineeships to develop a green collar workforce and support our natural environment.”

IMPACT Make Your Mark business development manager Judi Heard said the jobseekers would complete conservation work at Mon Repos Conservation Park, Sharon Gorge, Meadowvale Nature Park and Vera Scarth-Johnson Wildflower Reserve near Coonarr Beach.

“Participants will remove weeds, plant native species, revegetate dunes and stream banks, and improve access so locals and tourists can better enjoy these areas. They’ll also make furniture and other products from recycled timber in our workshop,” Ms Heard said.

“These placements will help to develop participants’ workplace skills like communication, problem solving and team work, as well as teaching them new practical skills in horticulture, landscaping and some basic construction.

“Bundaberg Regional Council, Burnett-Mary Regional Group, Bundaberg and District Landcare and Queensland Parks and Wildlife will be working with us and the participants on the placements.”

Unemployed people can check their eligibility and register their interest in joining Queensland’s Green Army by calling 1800 249 215 or visiting www.greenarmy.qld.gov.au.


Media contacts: Treasurer’s office – 3224 6361 or 3224 5982
                              IMPACT Make Your Mark – Judi Heard 4153 4233

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