Northern Rivers water, weed biosecurity, and flood mitigation organisation, Rous County Council (Rous) say they are proud to celebrate the achievement of one of its trainees, who was selected to participate in the NSW government’s Fresh Start Aboriginal Recruit and Supervisor Network.
Rous say, ‘The Fresh Start Aboriginal Recruit and Supervisor Network launch event, held in Sydney on 10 June, brought together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees, apprentices and cadets from across New South Wales councils with mentoring and support’.
‘Almost one year into his On Country Management Traineeship with Rous, Cassius Holten-Roberts said that being invited to join the Network and participate in the launch was a significant honour.
‘Being invited to the statewide launch was a proud moment for me,’ said Cassius Holten-Roberts.
‘It was an opportunity to represent Rous and reflect on how the traineeship has helped me build new skills, confidence and a clearer vision for my future career.’
Highlights of his traineeship have included participating in cultural gatherings, learning about native vegetation regeneration, delivering environmental education activities at schools and community events, and developing his public speaking skills.
‘I’ve really enjoyed the variety of experiences the traineeship has offered.’
‘From participating in cultural gatherings and hands-on environmental restoration work to delivering education activities in schools and the community, the traineeship has provided a wide range of rewarding experiences.
‘Having started my career in bush regeneration and the local education system, it has been especially meaningful to have the opportunity to continue educating students about the importance of caring for Country.’
Looking ahead, Cassius hopes to continue working in bush regeneration and catchment management programs.
Rous Catchment and Cultural Awareness Manager, Anthony Acret, said Cassius’ participation at the statewide event reflected both his personal growth and the success of the traineeship program.
‘In less than a year, we have seen him develop new technical skills, build confidence in public speaking and community engagement, and become a valued member of our team’.
“The Fresh Start Program is delivering real benefits for regional communities by helping councils invest in young people, build workforce capability and create long-term career opportunities.”
‘Through the Fresh Start Program, led by the Office of Local Government NSW, councils across the state are being funded to recruit apprentices, trainees and cadets. The initiative is helping to cultivate the next generation of local government professionals while contributing to the development of a skilled and sustainable workforce for the future.
‘The Fresh Start Aboriginal Recruit and Supervisor Network is supporting the 113 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruits currently working in councils through the Fresh Start Program.
‘Following the launch, the Network will continue to operate online, so recruits in every part of NSW can stay connected, share their experiences and continue receiving support and career opportunities to build their skills’.
Details about the program can be found here: https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/
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