Robert, Readymix and the world of work
Dino Donadel, quarry manager, with Robert Jackson and Lynn Romano, Ingham State High Beacon project officers, in front of the dump truck Robert operates.
Below: Robert operating the loader at the Readymix Cordelia quarry
When Robert Jackson was in the 10th grade at Ingham High School in North Queensland, he was not thriving on the school’s traditional education program.
“An alternative curriculum was developed that was more responsive to the needs of young men like Robert,” says Ingham High School Principal Sally Thompson. “The program focuses on developing quality relationships and learning opportunities, creating links between industry, the workplace and the school as the learning environment.”
Through the school partnership with the Beacon Foundation - which Readymix supports - a contact was established with Wayne Scott, Readymix’s North Queensland area manager in Townsville.
“Young men need to know what types of employment are available. The quarrying industry isn’t glamorous and doesn’t receive a lot of publicity. Having the students on site gives us an opportunity to explain what the industry is all about,” says Wayne.
Robert wanted to work outdoors and had a strong interest in heavy machinery. The school program provided classroom learning, hands on experiences as well as literacy and numeracy support.
The program included a “Wednesday Work Placement” and Robert travelled south to the Readymix Bohle quarry in Townsville. He enjoyed the change of environment midweek and started working towards appropriate licences.
Today Robert is working full time, has his driver’s licence and an old but reliable Ute.
“He has settled in well to the routines of work,” says Dino Donadel, Cordelia quarry manager. “As part of the smaller site, Robert is not just operating machinery but is involved in maintenance and attends safety meetings. He is becoming multi-skilled and we will support Robert to continue studying towards his licences and qualifications.”
“I’m not missing school and like the work,” says Robert. “On my first day I misjudged the time and arrived at 5.30 am instead of 6.30 am. I don’t think they’ll ever let me forget it! I started with the dump truck and this week I’m learning to operate the loader. I look forward to the day I am allowed to drive the dump truck through town.”
