Hutchinson Builders is recruiting apprentices for its Brisbane sporting complex contract, in a bid to pave the way for a more resilient industry.
The Brisbane-based construction company has been contracted by the Council to build a new public rowing shed and clubhouse at Riverhills.
As the only grassroots rowing program of it type in Australia, it will be built for young people by young people.
Managing Director of Hutchinson Builders, Greg Quinn, says it is the first time young building apprentices will complete such a project.
“The idea was hatched by Ben Young, who is in charge of apprentices at Hutchies,” Quinn explains.
“Ben Young who is a former oarsman approached me with the idea and I immediately knew he was on the right track to not only help our company but also the premier Anna Bligh in her quest to provide 100,000 new jobs for Queensland,” he says.
“We want to be part of the government’s strategy to provide new jobs and we see ourselves as a major building company which can help pave the way to get Queensland working.”
Hutchinsons is attempting to expand employment for young people, so they are ready when the building industry picks-up and more experienced builders are required.
“So many times when there is a downturn in the building industry the first people to be laid off are apprentices, but at Hutchinsons we are thinking positively and want to continue employing young people as much as we can,” Quinn says.
The $3 million Centenary Rowing Club Facility has already received a $500,000 election commitment from Lord Mayor Campbell Newman.
The club was started in 2001 as a way for all Brisbane students to get involved in the water sport.
Over 200 children from over 20 different schools are being taught how to row.
With help from the Government and the private sector, it is hoped the complex will be fully operational in 12 months.