Ms Douglas’s scholarship will facilitate the purchase of start-up tools and books to support an apprenticeship with Riverland Cabinets and Joinery in Moama while Ms Baetge, who is employed by Echuca Regional Health, will undertake a Certificate II in Security Operations.
Only 16 per cent of security officers and guards in Australia are female and the average age is 41. Women aged under 30 comprise 14 per cent of the cabinet making industry but the figure drops to just eight per cent for women undertaking an apprenticeship.
Balance for Better is led by Campaspe Cohuna Local Learning and Employment Network (CCLLEN), the Committee for Echuca Moama (C4EM) and Campaspe Primary Care Partnership (CPCP).
Additional financial support has been generously provided by Byford Fluid Solutions of Moama.
The scholarships celebrate the professional achievements of women and highlight the diversity of employment opportunities across the Campaspe Shire and Murray River council areas; both municipalities are also Balance for Better project partners.
The funding aims to provide practical assistance to those carving a career in non-traditional sectors and the announcement of round one allocations has been timed to coincide with International Women’s Day 2022.
“We are proud to acknowledge and congratulate Sophie and Jodie who are playing an important role in breaking down outdated stereotypes and building true gender equity within the local workforce,” CPC executive officer Emma Brentnall said this week.
“The adjudicating committee felt both applicants fulfilled the scholarships’ criteria and demonstrated a commitment to carving a career in their chosen field.
“We wish them all the very best in their future endeavours and look forward to updates as their education and training progresses.”
Ms Brentnall said an encouraging response to the call for Balance for Better applications had prompted the partner organisations to extend the 2022 initiative by inviting a second round of submissions.
“We hope the example set by Sophie and Jodie will encourage other women to come forward and participate,” she said.
“Scholarships of up to $1000 are available for females working in male-dominated industries and we feel sure there are others in the community who could benefit from the Balance for Better project.
“We therefore strongly encourage interested individuals or companies with eligible employees, to reach out for further information and an application form.”
For all inquiries, please contact Campaspe Primary Care Partnership on 5484 4485 or email administration@campaspepcp.com.au
