More than 400 young people across Golden Plains and surrounding areas attended the inaugural Golden Plains Careers Expo at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre on Saturday 24 June.
The Golden Plains Careers Expo (the Expo) was a one-day event fostering local talent and empowering young individuals with valuable career insights. The event showcased a range of education and training pathways and career opportunities, with 30 exhibitors in attendance including universities, TAFEs, skills and training providers and local industry and employers.
Hosted by Golden Plains Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Cunningham, the Expo was officially opened by Member for Geelong, Christine Couzens MP, following a Welcome to Country performed by Wadawurrung traditional owner Ash Skinner.
Special guest speakers including Victoria Police Senior Sergeant Craig Grant, Director of Meredith Dairy Julie Cameron, YMCA Youth Parliament Coordinator and former Golden Plains Young Citizen of the Year Alisha Nurnaitis, Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Ash Skinner and Associate Director, Partnerships and Growth at Federation University Bill Mundy provided insight into specific career pathways and share their experiences.
Guests in attendance also enjoyed complimentary food and drink and live entertainment from the Bannockburn College P-12 Senior Band.
Quotes attributable to Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Brett Cunningham
“We are delighted to have hosted the inaugural Golden Plains Shire Council Career Expo. This event was a fantastic opportunity for youth to explore a range of career pathways and further education opportunities and to connect with employers and industry professionals.
“One of the most powerful ways to shape the future of our community is by investing in the potential of our young people and the Expo event is a testament to our commitment to advancing the learning and employment outcomes for the youth of Golden Plains.”
Quotes attributable to Christine Couzens, Member for Geelong
"This Careers Expo has been a great opportunity for young people living in the Golden Plains Shire to explore and learn about education and career pathways to obtain the employment they are interested in in the future. Our kids deserve the educational opportunities that will provide them with fulfilling jobs in the future.”
The Golden Plains Careers Expo is an initiative of Council’s Crime Prevention Project, which is funded by a $299,000 grant from the Victorian Government’s Building Safer Communities program.