"This initiative is designed to ensure council's workforce is equipped with contemporary skills, knowledge and expertise to deliver high quality outcomes in the key areas of constructing and maintaining council's infrastructure," council's executive leader service delivery, Ron Posselt said.

Fourteen employees will be signed up to formal training contracts for Certificate III level qualifications in Road Construction and Maintenance and Plant Operations.

"Training will be conducted on the job with TAFE trainers providing expert instruction and tuition on best practice industry standards," Mr Posselt added.

Council's organisational development department has sourced Federal and State government funding to facilitate the training, allowing for it to be rolled out across council's outdoor workforce. A formal information session with TAFE has been scheduled for Thursday February 23 at council's works depot in Arkwright Crescent Kolodong, starting 7am. This session will be followed by the formal signing of training contracts with participating employees, TAFE and Greater Taree City Council.

"This initiative demonstrates Council's commitment to ensure continued improvement in the services it delivers.

"A highly skilled and competent workforce is central to this approach. This arrangement with TAFE supported by the Federal funding is a good example of a sustainable win-win solution for council, employees and the wider community," council general manager, Gerard Jos� said.

For further information or details contact Tony Day in the Human Resources section of council's organisational development department on 6592 5305.