Bravus Mining and Resources has partnered with DRA Global, an engineering services company, to create and develop training and employment opportunities for First Nations people.
DRA Global’s First Nations traineeship program will recruit Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to work in critical mining roles that will support the Carmichael coal mine operations.
The Carmichael mine is an open cut mine that produces ten million tonnes of coal per annum, and is located 160 kilometres northwest of Clermont in regional Queensland.
Bravus chief operating officer Mick Crowe said the new traineeship opportunities the company is offering will prioritise Wangan and Jagalingou, Jangga, Birriah, and Juru Traditional Owners.
“Traditional Owner engagement and participation has been a key focus for our business since the earliest days of the Carmichael project,” Crowe said.
“Programs like DRA’s First Nations traineeship build on our Indigenous land use agreements, cultural heritage management plans, and Indigenous participation plan to generate multigenerational benefits for Traditional Owners and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”
DRA Global provides operations and maintenance services at the Carmichael mine’s coal handling and preparation plant facility (CHPP).
As part of the two-year First Nations traineeship program, participants will have an opportunity to gain experience in roles such as a CHPP operator, site administrator and site health, safety and environment administrator.
DRA Global senior vice president delivery for the Asia-Pacific region (APAC) Michael Carretta said the program recognises the value of cultural diversity within the mining industry.
“As a global multinational company, DRA is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the communities where we operate, employing local people to drive better economic outcomes and striving to leave a positive impact,” Carretta said.
“We are proud to partner with Bravus on this initiative to collectively strengthen our engagement with First Nations people in Australia.”