Clontarf academy members across the country stepped into workplaces during Term 3 to learn more about local industries and future careers. The visits gave them a firsthand look at job pathways, apprenticeships and the skills employers value.
Esperance Academy (WA) visited CBH Group’s Esperance facilities, where the boys learnt how grain moves from local farms through to the port. The timing was perfect, with a truck from Clontarf partner Freight Lines Group (FLG) arriving with three trailers full of grain. The visit also introduced the boys to the range of careers available at CBH and made an immediate impact, with two Year 12 boys applying for upcoming summer harvest positions. A special thank you to the CBH team, including 2025 Clontarf graduate Jake McKenzie, for sharing their knowledge and experience.
On 29 July, senior academy members attending the Central West Employment Forum in Dubbo, NSW explored a range of career pathways and met employers, training organisations and industry representatives. They took part in workshops, received advice about employment and learnt more about the skills and attitudes needed in the workplace. The trip also included a visit to Coates, where the boys discovered the many roles available within the equipment hire industry, as well as some friendly cricket and basketball against their Bourke and Coonamble brothers.
Dubbo South Academy boys also visited the Acerez site at Dunedoo. The boys toured the site and learnt about construction, infrastructure and life while working away from home. Acerez staff explained apprenticeship opportunities, working rosters and the facilities available to workers, including accommodation, a dining hall, gym and sporting areas. A highlight was visiting one of the towers and learning that each tower takes approximately 14 days to construct.
Kirwan Academy (QLD) completed its first worksite visit to Hitachi, where the Year 11 boys were introduced to mine site machinery and the career opportunities available within the industry. Ashley from Hitachi showed the group around and answered their questions, with the boys showing particular interest in apprenticeships and future employment opportunities.
Thank you to CBH, Coates, Acerez and Hitachi for welcoming the academies and helping our young men explore their future options.
