NSW Minerals Council in Bathurst to discuss pathways into mining careers

NSW mining representatives were in Bathurst this week to discuss the varied and challenging mining careers on offer with local students.

Orange mining operator Cadia Valley Operations and the NSW Minerals Council took part in the F.A.C.T.S Careers Expo in Bathurst on Thursday to provide over 1000 local high school students with information on pathways into a mining career.

Following the event, industry careers advisors convened a ceremony with NSW Mining Scholarship recipients, sponsored by Cadia Valley Operations, to congratulate them on their achievements and discuss careers in the sector.

NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee said that mining provides many exciting and challenging employment opportunities for all young people across Central West NSW and beyond.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re a student, a young person, or simply seeking a career change, NSW Mining is an exciting and challenging industry to be a part of, with big opportunities, big potential and big careers on offer,” Mr Galilee said.

“This year, we will support a record 82 students across the State to study a minerals-related degree or course comprising both new and existing students in the rolling three year program.

“Participants receive $500 in Year 11, $1,000 in Year 12 and a further $2,000 in sponsorship if they successfully complete their first year of a minerals related tertiary course. Plus, the students are matched a ‘mentor’ from a local company, giving students valuable contact with the industry.

“A recent report on training and education activity in the minerals sector across Australia showed that apprentices and trainees make up around 5% of the workforce of total mining, and female apprentices and trainees comprise around 15% of all apprentices and trainees.

“Over 6,000 people are directly employed in mining across North, North West and Central West NSW. We’re going to play a big role in the Central West for decades to come.”

Contact: Lindsay Hermes I NSW Minerals Council I

lhermes@nswmining.com.au I 02 9274 1419