MOTIVATED and eager Mornington Island locals are benefiting from collaboration between the council and the Department of Housing and Public Works (Building and Asset Services).
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The move is already opening up new opportunities locals to earn and contribute to the community.
The historic step towards a sustainable community housing repair model has employed 20 locals after operations started earlier this month.
A huge challenge for the Wellesley Island council; Mornington Island mayor Brad Wilson said the new construction model assisting locals in gaining valuable qualifications in trades was “an ultimate feat”.
“Council’s move will create a more sustaining future for our island community,” Cr Wilson said.
“Council can implement education through training, provide greater opportunity to residents and improve service delivery while securing excellent value for money for external associations ... we are working with community, for community,” Cr Wilson said.
An innovative team of carpenters, plumbers, painters and electricians have already reported a greater level of local pride, skills and work ethic shown in the past month since operations started, with trade assistants aged from 18-50, male and female.
Resident and enthusiastic painter Kathleen Juhel, 20, said she was thrilled to learn a new skill.
“It is an awesome experience to work with the local council and I can learn something new that will benefit me in the future,” she said.
