Meet Breeanna Parker - QLD Training Awards 2024 Nth QLD Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year Top 3 Finalist

 

Bree Parker, a rising star in Queensland’s mining sector, finished in the Top 3 of the 2024 QLD Training Awards Nth QLD in the category of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year. 

The Awards recognise outstanding achievements in vocational education and training (VET) statewide, and those who demonstrate the importance of lifelong learning for both themselves and their community.

After graduating in February with a Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations from Civil Safety, the 20-year-old is already making significant strides in the Queensland mining sector.

 

Courses offered a pathway to mining

Bree highlights the immediate employability that her training provided, saying it ultimately sets you up for success in the construction, mining and resources industry. 

“I could see the course offered a genuine pathway to the mining sector through multi-skilling,” she said.

“By focussing all my modules to attain skills that might be needed in the resources sector, such as experience with multiple machines, I was able to almost walk immediately into a job.”

Bree’s training involved immersive practical learning experiences that equipped her with invaluable skills and hands-on expertise. 

Training for success

“My training equipped me to start my job at the Mt Cuthbert Group copper mine, 17-kilometers from Cloncurry, driving a Moxy in a FIFO position,” she said. 

“With every completed module, I became more confident of employment in the mines, knowing my training guaranteed experience working on machinery that was technically the same as the ones I am working with now.”

Bree credits Civil Safety for fostering her growth and development in a supportive and nurturing environment.

 “I was attracted to Civil Safety because they really take care of their trainees,” she said.

 “You weren’t afraid to ask questions and were supported at every stage. I didn’t have much love for school, but this was different. Civil Safety provides mentors to work with you—mentors I am still in touch with today. 

I became more confident, my self-esteem grew, and I walked onto the job site ready for work. It doesn’t get better than that.”

Advocate for learning opportunities

As Bree continues to excel in her career, she remains committed to giving back to her community and advocating for accessible training opportunities for all. 

“I believe everyone should have the opportunity for learning and training regardless of their circumstances or limitations,” she said. 

“Receiving my Certificate III is my proudest moment to date–not only proving my competency but it’s testament to the hard work, support and confidence my family, community and employer have entrusted in me.”

Helping students achieve their goals

Civil Safety CEO Robert Kerridge said Bree’s success is a reflection of her hard work and dedication. 

“We are incredibly proud of her achievements and look forward to supporting her continued success in the future,” he said. 

Each year, we help tens of thousands of individuals obtain the necessary qualifications and skills to enter new industries or to upskill and diversify within their current careers, and our students and community are at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we are committed to creating learning environments where our students can thrive to reach their full potential.”



Watch Bree’s Story


Your pathway to a career in the mines

 

Civil Safety offers a variety of nationally accredited qualifications and courses to help you pursue your career or upskill in the Queensland mining industry – from entry-level to supervisor level.

If you’re considering a career in the Queensland resources sector, we recommend you start with the Standard 11 Mining Induction course as this is a mandatory requirement to working on mine sites in QLD.

View Mining Courses View Courses by Industry For more information about our courses, funding, or anything else, please call us on 1300 CIVIL S or email us at info@civilsafety.edu.au