New building for Bunbury apprentice and training centre

28/3/03
South-West Minister Jim McGinty today officially opened a new and expanded administration and training centre building for the Bunbury Apprentice and Traineeship Company.
The company provides a skilled workforce for local industries by offering training and apprenticeships in a range of capacities, such as business administration, retail, metal fabrication, carpentry, building construction and forklift training.
Mr McGinty recognised the important role the company played in the community.
"This not-for-profit company provides a vital service to the community, particularly for young people," he said.
"It offers a diverse range of practical training opportunities which opens doors to employment and benefits the local economy and businesses.
"The company is the largest employer of youth in Western Australia outside the Perth metropolitan area with branches in Busselton, Manjimup, Mandurah. It also has a branch in Perth.

"In the past year, the company's turnover was $10million - all of which gets directed straight back to youth - through training and apprenticeship programs."
Both the State and Federal Governments provide funding to the company.
While in Bunbury, Mr McGinty also visited the Bunbury Back Beach development to look at the first stage of the project at Rocky Point, which was nearing completion. The mayor and chief executive officer of the City of Bunbury also attended.
"The State Government has committed $1.2million to this first stage of Bunbury's coastal enhancement project and it will be an outstanding asset for the city," the Minister said.
Mr McGinty also had an updated tour of the 'Lena' - a confiscated fishing boat, accessed by the Chamber of Commerce. The boat is being stripped and sunk off Bunbury for use as a dive wreck.
The Minister said the impact of the wreck on the local economy could be significant and form part of the West Coast Dive Wreck Trail. The trail would extend from Geraldton to Albany and have international appeal.
He congratulated the chamber on its initiative in securing the vessel and taking advantage of a golden opportunity for the South-West.
Minister's office: 9220 5000