OREANDA-NEWS. Five new electrical and plant mechanic apprentices have kicked off their careers with Bengalla mine and group training employer MIGAS.

The apprentices will complete hands-on experience at Bengalla’s open cut coal mine and a technical study period at Hunter Institute Muswellbrook Mining Industry Skills Centre over the four-year programme.

Bengalla General Manager Operations Jo-Anne Scarini said “It is always satisfying to welcome the new intake of apprentices.

“We take our responsibility to develop young people very seriously and we will work hard to ensure this occurs effectively.

“We look forward to seeing extremely competent tradespeople in four years’ time.”

Muswellbrook local and new apprentice Joaby Stevens said “I was stoked and really grateful to receive an apprenticeship with Bengalla.

“The appeal of working for Bengalla is that it is close to home and has lots of opportunities to learn new things. Bengalla also has a good working community and I wanted to be a part of that.

“I knew I wanted to work in a trade when an electrician came and changed lightbulbs and switches at my house, and told me some of the ‘works’ involving electricity.

“I chose to work for Bengalla as I wanted to get the best out of my apprenticeship and learn as much as possible.”

The apprentices will be employed through group training employer MIGAS and will join 14 other apprentices at Bengalla.