Sion Minniecon and Natasha Fanti, who were a part of the first intake into the program in August last year, graduated yesterday after learning to operate up to six types of heavy vehicles used in mining operations.

Both have been offered permanent roles within the Zinc Open Pits team.

Mr Minniecon said he was very grateful to be a part of the BIG 6 mining program and looked forward to starting in his new role at Xstrata Zinc’s Black Star Open Pit.

“This program shows that if you do the hard yakka and prove yourself, doors will open for the future,” he said.

“I moved to Mount Isa in 2012 looking for a change and now I can operate six different heavy vehicles and have a permanent job in the mines.”

The BIG 6 program was founded through a contract between the Zinc Open Pits team, IsaSkills and local business, ADG Excavations.

Xstrata Zinc Australia chief operating officer Brian Hearne said the investment in Indigenous training was part of a local recruitment strategy.

“It has been great to see the enthusiasm our first BIG 6 trainees have brought to the program,” Mr Hearne said.

“The first two graduates have developed good skills and the right attitude to qualify them for permanent roles and we look forward to welcoming them to our team.”

The remaining trainees from the first intake are continuing their training and are on track to graduate before June this year.