Click here for a photo of the Year 9 students on the Callide mine site tour.

A personal tour of Batchfire Resources’ Callide mine, 20km north of Biloela, was one of many exciting learning experiences for Year 9 Redeemer Lutheran College Biloela students yesterday.

The students were participating in a new Year 9 trades program developed and delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) to extend the popular Year 10 trade workshop program with activities relevant to the younger cohort of students.

Redeemer Lutheran College Acting Principal, Megan Worthington, said the new program was a huge success with the Year 9 trade students

“The Callide mine site tour gave them a genuine insight into the many roles and processes involved in operating a coal mine,” said Ms Worthington.

“It was a unique experience for the students and a great opportunity for them to ask the Batchfire team questions about their careers and qualifications.”

General Manager of ESG & Development at Batchfire Resources, Stuart Schmidt, said the company was proud to be the largest employer in the Callide Valley.

“Around 85 per cent of our workforce is from the local area, including Biloela, and we trust that today’s tour and workshop has inspired students to join us as apprentices or graduates for a future in resources,” said Mr Schmidt.

The QMEA is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).  Director of Skills, Education and Diversity at the QRC, Katrina-Lee Jones, said it was rewarding to see such a positive response to the new Year 9 program.

“These students are at a great age for exploring career opportunities in the resources sector as they make decisions about their study pathways.”

“We have seen firsthand the benefits of teaming students and experts to provide real life examples of what it’s like in the field,” said Ms Jones.

“This workshop provides the perfect blend of careers information with trade skills activities and practical tips on applying for apprenticeships.

“Our aim is to inspire the students to continue their studies and consider a trade in the resources sector which will give them great personal, professional and financial rewards.”

For more information about careers in the resources sector visit: shapeyourfuture.com.au