Protein Jobs Fair to connect jobseekers with agriculture opportunities
Published on 09 August 2023
Western Downs Regional Council has partnered with Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise and AgForce to deliver the third consecutive Protein Jobs Fair, offering jobseekers the opportunity to connect with potential employers and explore exciting career pathways in the animal agriculture industry.
This growing sector offers a diverse range of careers, including production, management, animal science, food processing, sales, marketing, and research, all of which will be represented at the Protein Jobs Fair at the Dalby Events Centre on Wednesday 6 September.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said the Protein Jobs Fair presented a great opportunity to further develop the region's renowned agricultural industry.
"As our region's largest employer, the agriculture industry plays a pivotal role in growing and sustaining our strong and diverse economy. The Protein Jobs Fair reflects our commitment to exploring new opportunities for growth and supporting this vital pillar," said Cr McVeigh.
"Offering a one-of-a-kind experience, this three-part event caters to both early career workers and seasoned professionals, and will feature insightful panel discussions, interactive presentations, and valuable networking opportunities with local industry representatives.
"Whether you're seeking a career change or starting fresh, you won’t want to miss this unique opportunity to explore the possibilities and potential of a career in animal agriculture.”
Partnering with Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise and AgForce, Council is eager to deliver this event which is significant in attracting and retaining skilled workers in the Western Downs.
Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise Chief Executive Officer, Greg Bowden said industry collaboration is important to showcase the array of career opportunities available in the protein sector.
"The Western Downs agricultural sector is a recognised leader in the agribusiness industry and continues to flourish, with a staggering 42% of the national feedlot capacity located within 200 kilometres of Dalby," Mr Bowden said.
"The demand for product is increasing, but businesses require workforce expansion to keep pace with growth. The Protein Jobs Fair aims to bridge the gap by connecting jobseekers directly with employers."
AgForce General Manager for Media and Community Engagement, Tanya Nagle said AgForce was proud to have joined forces with Western Downs Regional Council and Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise to deliver an engaging and informative program for school leavers.
"The school sessions provides students in Year 10, 11 and 12 with the opportunity to learn more about job opportunities in the intensive agriculture industries and connect and discuss employment opportunities with our local businesses,” Ms Nagle said.
“Our hope is to better inform our younger generations about the array of jobs available in the protein sector."
Local businesses and stallholders will be in attendance promoting their services, offering first-hand knowledge, and showcasing their current vacancies. Council is accepting stallholder applications until Friday 18 August.
The Protein Jobs Fair will be held at the Dalby Events Centre on Wednesday 6 September. The school session will run from 10am to 2pm, the university session will run from 2.30pm to 4pm, and the public session will run from 4pm to 6pm.
The event is free to attend however registrations are required. For more information on the upcoming Protein Jobs Fair, please contact Council on 1300 COUNCIL (1300 268 624) or visit http://www.wdrc.qld.gov.au/protein-jobs-fair
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