General News
17 June, 2025
Investing in futures
Local businesses across the Wimmera have partnered with the Wimmera Southern Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network (WSMLLEN) to deliver the second year of the region's innovative Work Experience Industry Taster Program.
Created and coordinated by WSMLLEN, the program allows young people to better connect with real-world career opportunities, ensuring they have early exposure to the region’s career options and pathways.
“WSMLLEN is proud to lead this program and work alongside the incredible businesses and educators in our region,” EO Vanessa O’Loughlin at WSMLLEN said.
Held during National Careers Week, the career education initiative provided Year nine students with meaningful, hands-on experiences across multiple industries, helping them build confidence, workplace skills, and a clearer understanding of the employment opportunities within their own region.
Participating businesses included Bunnings Horsham, GWM Water, Horsham Sports & Community Club, Intergrain, KFC, Horsham Landcare Network, Morrow Motor Group, Saints Michael & John’s Primary School, Up Tempo Café and West Wimmera Health Service in Nhill.
“Together, we’re not only supporting students — we’re future-proofing the Wimmera Southern Mallee workforce," Ms O’Loughlin said.
Pre and post-program surveys indicated strong growth in students' employability skills, confidence, and awareness of career possibilities.
There was a 21 per cent increase in problem-solving skills and a 17.4 per cent improvement in students' confidence to ask questions in the workplace.
One hundred per cent of students reported better ability to follow instructions with 87 per cent indicating they left the program actively thinking about their future career options.
Students overwhelmingly enjoyed meeting new people, trying different industries, and getting a genuine taste of working life — with many expressing a desire to stay longer in their placements.
The WSMLLEN welcomes interest from businesses and organisations eager to support young people and help shape the region’s future workforce by offering work placements, incursions or excursions.
“The work experience program is a genuine win-win,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
“It gives businesses a chance to invest in local futures, while giving students real insight into career pathways close to home.”
Businesses interested in participating can contact Sharon Warrick at WSMLLEN via phone (03) 53105975 or email: Sharon.warrick@llen.com.au