Four people employed under the Victorian Government’s Working for Victoria program have begun their new roles at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning’s (DELWP) Mildura depot.
These roles are part of hundreds of land management positions offered through the State Government initiative that matches people who have lost their jobs due to economic impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19) with employers who need staff.
Senior Forest and Fire Management Officer Andrew Koren said the new recruits will work on weed and pest control projects on Crown land, state forests and parks in the Mallee.
“The team have already been cleaning up Koorlong State Forest by removing rubbish and undertaking and pests and weed control,” Mr Koren said.
“It’s great to have the Working for Victoria team on board because improvements to public land are vital for the environment and the wellbeing of local communities.
“Our crews are adhering to appropriate physical distancing and hygiene requirements to ensure we can safely continue operations.”
The Working for Victoria initiative helps participants learn new skills, stay connected to the workforce and do valuable work in their local community.
The recruits received training in pest and weed identification, four-wheel drive theory, safe work practices, first aid and more.