City of Busselton and Rio Tinto celebrate decade-long milestone for youth development trainee partnership

A South West council has celebrated a partnership with a mining company in delivering youth services in the area.

The City of Busselton and Rio Tinto this year mark the 10th anniversary of their collaboration in funding a youth development trainee program.

This year’s trainee, Torres Strait Islander woman Sinead Saylor, has started her 12-month stint in the role after previous work volunteering for a number of community organisations and events.

Ms Saylor said she wanted to make a positive impact in the role.

“I would like to be a voice and guide for those unable to speak up for themselves,” she said.

“I am looking forward to the opportunity of expanding my skills and knowledge and hope to play a part in shaping a positive environment for myself, other individuals and the community.”

City youth development supervisor Angela Griffin said every trainee brought a different skill set.

“Youth have so much to offer the world and helping them to have their experiences, opinions and voices heard by local government is very fulfilling,” she said.

“It’s helped the City shape its services and cater for a variety of events and workshops to suit the needs of youth.”

Rio Tinto’s regional community services manager Justin Francesconi said the partnership was “delivering excellent outcomes”.

“We understand that by supporting young people, we are supporting the whole community,” he said.

The company increased its contributions last year to allow for the program to be extended to Dunsborough.