Council records win

THE City of Greater Dandenong’s Records Management Unit has won the Telstrasponsored National Training Employer of the Year award.
More than 300 guests and trainees attended the graduation at the Dingley International Hotel on Friday 15 July, where the council was recognised for its longterm commitment and support of traineeship programs.
The council has offered traineeships as part of the Job Skills and Community Jobs Program since 1994, and more recently the Youth Employment Scheme and Community Care Traineeships.
The council offered 40 community care traineeships in 200405, resulting in fulltime employment with council.
More than 50 trainees are now sponsored and are spread across business units such as Office Administration, Information Technology, Drugs and Community Safety, Asset and Records Management.
An example of a traineeship includes Asset Management Services working with the Toorrong Aboriginal Corporation to provide employment opportunities for Aboriginal Youth, through a mowing service to two council parks.
Mayor Maria Sampey said the council had benefited greatly from the sponsorship of trainees.
“After completing their traineeship, about 50 per cent continue on with us, or find placement with other organisations associated with council.
“We appreciate the enthusiasm, knowledge and skills that they bring to council. They are a valuable resource, building the knowledge of our workforce,” Cr Sampey said.