What a fantastic day bringing together water industry operators from across the region for a relaxed, practical and genuinely engaging WIOA Interest Day in Gympie.
With close to 100 attendees, the event offered flexible, two-session participation and created space for meaningful connection, learning and shared experience across the sector.
From a blind water taste test—sparking plenty of debate over the best drop on the day, to the hands-on mains tapping demonstration, attendees rolled up their sleeves and got involved. While the tapping proved challenging, it was also a lot of fun, with participants supported step-by-step by local Gympie plumbers. As MC David Cameron from Build Skills aptly described it, it was “mentoring in action.”
A highlight of the day was seeing operators step outside their comfort zones, demonstrating teamwork and practical learning in a supportive environment, even with a lively crowd looking on.
The panel discussion explored pathways, training and career progression, prompting open and honest conversations about challenges faced in the water operations sector. The session reinforced the importance of knowledge-sharing across an industry that plays a critical role in protecting communities and keeping lives safe every day.
The room was filled with great discussion, practical insights and strong peer connection, exactly what WIOA Interest Days are all about.
A big thank you to everyone who attended, presented, demonstrated and contributed to making the day such a success.
