Ten Bundaberg jobseekers have spent the last four weeks earning while learning, undertaking a range of local environmental projects and gaining valuable skills and experience as members of the Bligh Government’s Green Army.
Parliamentary Secretary for Employment and Economic Development Jan Jarratt said the recruits – some of the very first enlisted in Queensland – were a perfect example of what Queensland’s Green Army set out to achieve.
“These recruits, all aged between 15 and 24, are actively getting out there, earning a wage, expanding their knowledge and skill base and improving their local community,” Ms Jarratt said.
“That’s what our three-year $57 million commitment to Queensland’s Green Army is all about – providing jobs and skills for the unemployed and underemployed, raising awareness of environmental issues, beautifying our environment and protecting our natural resources.”
Ms Jarratt witnessed the group in action today while in Bundaberg as part of the 18th Bligh Government Community Cabinet.
Premier Anna Bligh, her Cabinet and the State's top public servants have spent the last two days out and about in Bundaberg, talking with residents and inspecting projects throughout the city.
“The work this young team has completed since beginning their Green Army stint with IMPACT Make Your Mark on July 31 has made real improvements to Bundaberg’s green areas, such as Saltwater Creek,” Ms Jarratt said.
“The team have undertaken a range of tasks including rubbish removal, revegetation and tree planting, which means they now have valuable skills and experience in horticulture and environmental rehabilitation.
“IMPACT Make Your Mark is working with the Bundaberg Regional Council, Burnett-Mary Regional Group, Bundaberg and District Landcare and Queensland Parks and Wildlife to ensure the tasks are targeted and beneficial to the participants as well as the broader community.”
IMPACT Make Your Mark business development manager Judi Heard said the organisation had received a $356,330 State Government grant for two Green Army projects.
“The current project continues until December, and we’ll be employing 10 more jobseekers for another project which will begin early next year,” Ms Heard said.
“The participants not only receive paid work but also gain vocational training and increased employment opportunities from the skills and experience they gain on these projects.”
Any jobseekers interested in joining Queensland’s Green Army can register at www.greenarmy.qld.gov.au or call 1800 249 215.”
Media contacts: Treasurer’s office - 3224 6361 or 3224 5982
IMPACT Make Your Mark – 4153 4233
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