Future Mechanical Technician

Mandandanji and Bigambul man Jack Weribone is determined to make the most of his opportunity in the Indigenous Careers Program. He’s completing his second work rotation at the Veolia Northern Water Treatment Plant, after his first rotation with Pro-Test Services.?

How did you get involved in the program?

A woman I went to school with works in one of the employment agencies. She always put me forward for jobs and I never seemed to get through. She put me forward for the program which I am so grateful for.

What do you enjoy about the program?

The exposure to all the different trades in the oil and gas industry, meeting new people and making new friends in the program and in my work placements. Harness Energy and QGC provided us real eye openers in our five week onboarding sessions that allowed me to grow more as a person and gave me more confidence and encouraged me to come out of my shell. I love learning new things each day.

What are you currently doing?

I am currently at the Veolia Northern Water Treatment Plant based in Woleebee Creek. I’ve just finished my second swing. I have three swings left with Veolia. In my first swing I spent a couple days in the operator’s room learning the Scada system from my more experienced colleagues. They gave me a lot of support from day one. I have gone on a couple of walkarounds in both of my swings to learn about all the different things that run the plant such as the clarifiers and many other components. I have also been helping out MFE, one of the other contractors based out here, with some maintenance and repairs.

What challenges have you experienced?

I wasn’t used to waking up so early, but I quickly adapted. I was also a bit scared at the start of my first two rotations not knowing what I’m heading into but I’ve fitted in really well with both which has been good. My car broke down in the last week of my first rotation which was mentally challenging. I have a good support network though which helped me out a lot. It’s also challenging being away from my partner and children.

What do you think your future looks like?

I envision seeing out the program and graduating with a Certificate III in Workplace Health and Safety, which is my first little goal. Looking further than that though is to land myself an apprenticeship as a mechanical fitter through MIGAS or QGC and becoming a qualified mechanical fitter and turner. I really enjoyed my first rotation as a mechanical fitter at Pro-Test Well Service and can see myself doing mechanical fitting and turning for a long time.?

“Jack has fitted into the team really well, asking questions and working with the?Operators in the mornings then moving across?to the trades contractors in the afternoons to help with his chosen skill. Keep up the great work Jack. We are all happy to call you one of our team.” Gavin, Plant Manager (QGC) Veolia

The 2023 Indigenous Careers Program intake opens in August 2022