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Year 11 and 12 students from Moura State High School will tomorrow present their team’s model mine vehicles to a group of representatives from Anglo American as they wrap up the Oresome Trades Camp delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).  

Created by the QMEA, which is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), the five-day hands-on workshop aims to encourage students to pursue tertiary trade pathways that can lead them to rewarding careers in the resources industry.  

QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Ms Katrina-Lee Jones said thanks to support from Anglo American, students gained valuable experience in the exciting trade-based roles the sector has to offer, including a behind-the-scenes tour of Anglo American’s Dawson Mine.   

“The resources sector employs some of the most skilled and highest-paid trades professionals, and an enduring skills shortage means there is an abundance of job opportunities for passionate tradespeople,” Ms Jones said.  

“This week, students worked collaboratively in teams as they rotated through different trade-related activities to design and construct a replica mine vehicle equipped with head lights, indicators, and emergency flashing lights.”  

General Manager of Anglo American’s Dawson Mine, Clarence Robertson said this camp was an opportunity for students to experience trade disciplines, including welding, electrical, and mechanical. 

“Working alongside our experienced tradespeople, the students gained practical knowledge and skills which will open their minds to what is needed for a safe and successful trade career,” he said.  

“Our team enjoys sharing their knowledge and experience with the students each year through the Oresome Trades Camp and other QMEA activities. We’re committed to supporting a sustainable pipeline of qualified workers in the regions through our apprenticeship programs and traineeships, and we would encourage these students to consider a career with Anglo American.” 

Moura State High School Principal, Ms Jill Lees said this camp provided invaluable work experience for students who gained new skills under the mentorship of experienced trade professionals.  

“As educators, it’s important to prepare our students for life after school, and this Oresome Trades Camp delivered by the QMEA and Anglo American was a great way for students to bolster their knowledge and understanding of career pathways in the resources industry.” 

As Australia’s largest and most successful industry-led education and schools training initiative, the QMEA seeks to broaden student and teacher knowledge of career opportunities in resources.  

The academy encourages a talent pipeline of employees into vocational and professional careers, with a focus on female and Indigenous participation. The QMEA currently engages with 90 schools and is a partnership between the QRC and the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.