General News
26 August, 2025
Job skilling projects attract funding
TWO practical skilling projects helping young people across the Mareeba-Tablelands region step into local jobs are set to continue for another year with renewed support from the Queensland Government.
Community-based not-for-profit Vocational Partnerships Group (VPG) has secured continued funding under the state’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative for both its Work Skills program and innovative Tablelands Trail Builders (TTB) traineeship project.
The programs were among 171 statewide selected for their strong employment outcomes and community impact.
“This renewed funding confirms what we see firsthand – when young people are given the chance to gain skills, real-world experience, and local connections, they succeed,” VPG chief executive officer Maryanne Tranter said.
“It’s a vote of confidence in the work we’re doing locally, and we’re proud to keep delivering these opportunities across our region.”
VPG has long been recognised as a regional leader in youth skilling, delivering practical, community-based programs that connect young people with apprenticeships, traineeships, and sustainable local jobs.
The Tablelands Trail Builders project offers young people aged 17-24 paid 22-week traineeships combining hands-on learning, employability skills training, and a Certificate I in Conservation and Ecosystem Management.
Trainees contribute to maintaining the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park and surrounding conservation areas.
The initiative has gained national recognition as a leading model of youth employment that delivers tangible, community-wide benefits by supporting a local recreational and tourism asset.
In just 12 months, two cohorts totalling eight trainees have:
Maintained over 470km of local trails
Planted more than 3,300 native trees
Cleared 1.5 acres of invasive weeds
Nurtured 2,500 revegetation saplings, and
Sown 6,000 native seeds for Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS).
Delivered in partnership with QPWS, Tablelands Regional Council, Tablelands Cycle Sports, and local environmental contractors, participants gain hands-on experience working alongside rangers, nursery volunteers, and conservation teams.
The second cohort of four trainees completed the program in August, and VPG is now recruiting four more trainees, along with a Project Supervisor to lead the next phase.
“This program is delivering strong environmental outcomes and opportunities for young people,” Ms Tranter said.
“Now we’re looking for the right person to lead the next chapter - and for four young people ready to step up, learn on the job, and make a meaningful contribution to the region.”
The Work Skills program, delivered in partnership with Civil Safety, supports young people aged 16-24 to gain a Certificate III in Rural Operations, alongside industry visits, job readiness training, and work experience.
Ten participants completed the most recent intake in August, one of three cohorts delivered each year. The next group will commence in early September.
“We’re growing our own skilled workforce by giving local young people the chance to learn, gain experience, and connect with local employers,” Ms Tranter said.
“It’s about setting them up for success - and meeting the needs of local industries at the same time.”
Both programs are designed to help young people take the next step into sustainable employment.
All Trail Builders trainees to date have secured ongoing work, and many Work Skills participants have moved into apprenticeships, traineeships, and other meaningful local jobs.
For more information or to apply for upcoming intakes and roles, visit www.vpginc.com.au or phone 4091 6411.
