On Friday 14 October, South Burnett CTC Inc (CTC) held a graduation ceremony for the participants of the local Green Army Flood Recovery Project, as funded by the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI). The graduates were congratulated by Council representatives and CTC staff at a BBQ held at Mt Wooroolin lookout.

Due to the significant flooding that occurred earlier in the year, CTC received State Government funding to facilitate a 20 week job placement project for 15 unemployed jobseekers. Under the guidance of Project Supervisor, Dave Little and CTC’s Employment Services Manager, Barb O’Hanlon, the participants completed extensive works at Mt Wooroolin. The project involved constructing an observation deck at the summit of the climb, as well as a shade structure at the picnic area, re-vegetation planting on the mountain and the renewal of flood damaged walking tracks.

These works were designed to provide participants with a variety of skills in the areas of construction and horticulture, with the intention of gaining further employment during or after completion of the 20 weeks. During the early stages of the project two participants were able to acquire employment.  To date, the Green Army Flood Recovery Project has assisted seven more participants gain further employment. 17 jobseekers were awarded certificates acknowledging the successful completion of their Work Placement and Training Plans at the graduation ceremony.

Government officials, Council representatives and community members have continued to provide positive feedback on  the projects completed at Mt Wooroolin. The works have improved the area providing the facilities for active recreational activities to be enjoyed by local residents and tourists alike.