Local businesses benefit from trainees entering the workforce

FINDING and retaining staff is one of the biggest challenges facing local businesses today.

Regional Training Services Queensland managing director David Asher said, as a member of the Pomona & District Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Noosa, he hears a lot of discussion around labour and skill shortages and how they are being exacerbated in the region by high rental and property prices.

“One solution that is being embraced by some forward-thinking employers is to build up their own workforces by putting on trainees, many of whom are school-based.

“They live locally so there are no affordable accommodation issues, and because the traineeship is treated by their school as a subject attracting QCE points, they are generally highly motivated.

“From an employer’s point of view, they gain a flexible workforce that is available at peak times such as school holidays, and who don’t move on for at least the duration of the traineeship (up to two years).”

David said if that isn’t enough, there are government financial incentives for the employer, and the trainee is supported throughout their studies by the registered training organisation (RTO).

“The Queensland state government contributes the majority of the cost of the training for the eligible person of your choice. Upon completion of the traineeship, the federal government will pay you an incentive payment.”

David said Regional Training Services Qld is working with many businesses in the Sunshine Coast region to create linkages between employers and suitable potential trainees.

“The ability to match training to the employer’s needs is one of the big benefits of a modern traineeship. This flexibility means that the most urgently needed skills can be prioritised, enabling the trainee to be a productive team member sooner.

“New employees, and in some cases existing employees, can be put through traineeships. Full- and part-time staff may be eligible along with school-based trainees.”

If you’d like to find out more about the benefits of having trainees in your business, contact the Regional Training team on 5481 2486 or email admin@regionaltraining.qld.edu.au.

Sell pre-loved items with Cooroy Car Parts

PRE-OWNED car, bike, boat, retro and related items can now be sold via Cooroy Car Parts.

The Maple Street shop has opened a second-hand section where items from the public are sold on consignment.

Cooroy Car Parts owners Adam and Mouette said customers can bring in items for them to display and try to sell on their behalf either for a percentage or an agreed price, as long as it’s realistic.

“The items have to be either car, bike or boat related, other items such as retro or vintage memorabilia are welcome too.

“We have already successfully sold a lot of items on behalf of our customers, as more people start bringing stuff in and using it, we hope it will evolve into an interesting, ever-changing place to visit.”

Adam said they also welcome people to put ads up for larger items they wish to sell, such as cars, bikes, boats and trailers.

“Although we do not have an official noticeboard yet, people can bring in one photo no larger than half an A4 page, and a description, and I will make up the ad to go in the window of our shop.” Cooroy Car Parts is at 10 Maple St, Cooroy, opposite the skate park.