Central Highlands Regional Council is proud to have a regional winner in the prestigious Queensland Training Awards.
Emerald ranger Michelle Doughty was awarded the prestigious Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year for Central Queensland award for completing her Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management.
Ms Doughty, who travelled to Mackay for the awards with four other Central Highlands’ finalists, said being announced the winner was the icing on the cake for the hard work she has put into her traineeship.
‘It was so special, whether you’re a winner or not, I think it was an amazing to be a part of it,’ she said.
Ms Doughty, a mother of two, said her passion and dedication for her role contributed to her being successful and taking the win.
‘I hadn’t been in the workforce for some time and I wasn’t qualified, so when council had the opportunity to apply for a traineeship I took it on,’ she said.
‘Juggling a family and the traineeship wasn’t always easy, but it taught me resilience and I’d like to think that I could be an ambassador for the Queensland Training Awards and other mature-age students to show that you can get out there and do it.’
Ms Doughty has subsequently gained a full-time role with council and said she’s glad to continue building on what she started during her traineeship.
Council’s Chief Executive Officer Scott Mason said Ms Doughty is a great asset to council and the award is a credit to the entire workforce.
‘For the first time, council nominated staff for the Queensland Training Awards and to have a winner is fantastic,’ he said.
‘I’d like to sincerely congratulate Michelle for her achievement and thank her for her passionate contribution and hard work.
‘Not only did we have a winner, we had ten nominees and four regional finalists who are all just as dedicated to their work.
‘The awards are open to anyone completing vocational training, from apprentice to diploma student, and all these training options are available for council staff.
‘Council’s next intake for traineeships in particular begins in October for a January start.’