By Natasha Fujimoto
FROM painters, electricians to landscapers, concreters and beyond our nation’s tradies quite literally build and maintain the foundations upon which our society thrives and prospers.
So, when it comes to ensuring the mental, financial and physical wellbeing of our apprentices, it is essential that these young men and women are provided with the right resources, right supports and the right strategies to not only get them through their training but ensure, for them, a long and industrious career.
Beginning with a free BBQ breakfast on a chilly winter’s morning, GOTAFE Shepparton presented an informative seminar for its bustling cohort of apprentices on Wednesday, June 14 in its auditorium focusing on key aspects of tradie health and wellbeing.
Apprenticeship support officer, Tina McCormack from Apprenticeships Victoria and student wellbeing advisor, Karen Dean from GOTAFE’s Student Success addressed the sizeable group of young tradesmen, delivering a brief overview on how to maintain health and wellbeing in their chosen trade.
Delving a little deeper, the seminar also provided the apprentices with tips on how to recognise the subtle warning signs of poor mental health in themselves and in others as well. The discussion also centred upon the concerning issue and prevalence of workplace bullying and how to combat it.
Providing strategies, contacts and organisations for the apprentices to utilise as they continue to fulfil their learning and beyond, the half-hour seminar finished on a high note with a $100-dollar, Total Tools raffle being drawn, with a very grateful first year apprentice, Nash Rendevski being the lucky winner.
