Water careers showcase to lure bright minds

The NSW Government is tackling skills shortages in the water industry, partnering with three regional councils for a fun-filled and hands-on career day to showcase water operations jobs to students, jobseekers and others pondering a profession change.

Minister for Water Rose Jackson said the NSW Government, Tamworth Regional Council, Liverpool Plains Shire Council and Gunnedah Shire Councils have joined forces to put on the event.

“We are under no illusions about the labour shortfalls facing our water industry, particularly in rural areas where populations are small, yet managing and delivering our most precious resource to the tap has never been more important,” Ms Jackson said.

“That’s why we’re throwing this event as a one-stop-shop to provide first-hand experience through practical, interactive water workshops, building professional connections and helping participants take their first step into a new career in water.”

Tamworth Regional Council Mayor Russell Webb said local water industry leaders will be on the ground to chat with participants and answer any of their questions directly.

“One of the main barriers to building up our workforce is simply a matter of low awareness about the sector as a great career choice and that’s what this showcase will look to address,” Cr Webb said.

“The beauty of the day will be the professional networking that comes from it and there will be plenty of opportunities for future work experience and traineeships in local water utilities for those who attend which is a major drawcard.”

Gunnedah Shire Council Mayor Jamie Chaffey said having the right personnel looking after town water supplies is essential with another drought knocking at the door.

“There are so many opportunities available in the water industry so if we can peak someone’s interest and it prompts them to seriously consider a career in this space, that’s a huge win already,” Cr Chaffey said.

“Water security is a major concern for people in this region, particularly with an El Nino looming, and this is part of our plan to ensure we’re equipped with the best and brightest minds to help operate our water and sewerage infrastructure in the future.”

Liverpool Plains Shire Council Doug Hawkins OAM welcomed the partnership between the three councils and the state government.

“It’s not every day you get three councils and the state government all in lockstep, which really emphasises the value of an initiative like this,” Cr Hawkins said.

“It’s a free event with lunch provided so we really encourage everyone to come along and explore a rewarding career in water that plays a vital role in supporting the local community.”

The Water Industry Careers Showcase will be held at the Calala Water Treatment Plant in Tamworth on Wednesday 6 September from 9:30am – 2pm for up to 70 people.

Registrations are essential and are available via Eventbrite