Mackay students get inspired at Blackwater

Our Mackay team recently hosted a group of year 12 students from Mackay State High School, giving them the opportunity to learn about mining operations and experience a day on site.    

Our team is currently working with the customer on their dragline 26 major shutdown at the Blackwater Mine. For the students who are considering future career pathways, it was a chance to see first-hand the diverse work we do and our team in action.  

After the students were provided with PPE clothing and a safety check was done, Superintendent Glen Lacey took on the role of tour guide and showed the students around the “house” of the dragline. 

Glen said that this was the first time they’ve held an open day like this for high school students and it was clear that it was a valuable learning experience for them.    

“I showed them the basic mechanical functions of a dragline and explained the range of works the shutdown team complete on a job like this,” he said.  

“It was great to inspire the students during their visit to consider a range of future job options – from Boilermakers and Mechanical Fitters to Supervisors and Trade Assistants.” 

During their visit, the students learnt about the “Machine”, a supersized bucket that lifts all the rock and dirt out of the ground to uncover the coal. 

Branch Manager Anthony Prestipino said that he explained to the students how the Machine works and its role in the strip-mining process.  

“It’s great to learn and experience these things before setting off on your career path because, without experiencing it in person, it can be difficult to understand exactly what is involved in the work we do on a mine site”, he said.   

After their lunch break, the students got to climb up the 3600-tonne dragline.  

Student Libby Hood said that she loved the hands-on work and can’t wait to come back.  

“I don’t mind getting my hands dirty and always wanted to become a Mechanical Fitter after I finish school – the site visit has just confirmed that for me,” she said.   

Glen said that it was great to have played a part in inspiring the high school students for their future careers.