General News
14 September, 2025
Guiding talented youth
TWO practical new guides aimed squarely at helping local businesses tap into the next generation of talent have been launched.
Unveiled at a business breakfast last week, the ‘Work Experience Guide for Business’ and the “Employer Guide to School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships” are designed to take the guesswork out of engaging young people in the workplace.
They were developed by the Cairns Chamber of Commerce in consultation with employers, schools and industry partners, and help businesses through the process of offering meaningful work placements, apprenticeships and traineeships – and highlight the benefits to both the business and the broader community.
Chamber chief executive officer Patricia O’Neill said the publications equipped business owners and HR managers with practical, easy-to-use tools to help them attract and develop their future workforce.
“This is particularly important in such a competitive labour market,” she said.
Cairns Regional Jobs Committee (RJC) project manager Janelle Yarwood said hosting a student was more than a gesture of goodwill – it was a smart recruitment strategy.
“Making work experience meaningful is the game changer,” she said.
“Employing a school-based apprentice or trainee is one of the most flexible and effective ways to build your future team.”
Among the speakers was Ursula Donnellan, business and quality manager at Mark Fletcher Solid Texture and Plaster Coatings and winner of the 2024 Master Builders Queensland Women in Building Award.
A passionate advocate for inclusivity in the construction industry, she recently began her own apprenticeship – proving that career change and lifelong learning are possible at any age.
Hannah Morgan, a year 11 student at Redlynch State College is currently completing a Certificate III in Dental Assisting.
Her ambition to study dentistry at JCU is already well underway, thanks to her school-based training and the support of her employer.
Kimberley Campbell from Little Sparrows Therapy said that there were few moments as rewarding as seeing a former student return to the clinic – not as a learner, but as a skilled professional.
