Increasing Aboriginal inclusion in the Victorian water sector
Several water corporations, including Barwon Water, Gippsland Water, Yarra Valley Water, East Gippsland Water, Goulburn Valley Water, Coliban Water, Lower Murray Water, Central Highlands Water, South East Water, Melbourne Water and Westernport Water, have committed to sponsoring Aboriginal people in their vocational education by providing internal traineeships and/or supporting students to attain formal qualifications.
Sam Weston commenced his traineeship with Westernport Water in 2017. He completed his qualification in Conservation and Land Management in 2018 and while working Sam has progressed towards completion of his university degree in Fisheries and Aquaculture. Since completing his studies in 2018 and finishing his traineeship, Sam has been promoted to the position of Land and Water Officer.
“Westernport Water has provided me with great mentors in the water industry that have allowed me to succeed in both my studies and my work. In my new role, I hope to contribute to the ongoing success of our organisation. My passion lies with our ability to be able to manage our land and water resources in a sustainable manner, much like the Bunurong Peoples of the Bass Coast have done for many, many generations.”
To find out more about the initiatives and activities that support Aboriginal inclusion, participation, engagement and employment in the Victorian water sector, see the Victorian Water Industry Recognising and Managing for Aboriginal Values Report (February 2020).
