Empowering young talent, strengthening our community

Council is delighted with the ongoing success of its Cadet Program, which currently supports 11 dedicated cadets working across civil engineering, urban and regional planning, business and commerce.

Council cadets with Councillors Mudaliar, Haggar, Noble, Porter, O’Neil and Nadin.

23 September 2025

Bega Valley Shire Council is delighted with the ongoing success of its Cadet Program, which currently supports 11 dedicated cadets working across civil engineering, urban and regional planning, business and commerce.

Council CEO, Anthony McMahon said these emerging professionals are playing a vital role in shaping the future of local government while gaining invaluable real-world experience in their chosen fields.

“Our cadets are not just part of the team — they are helping bolster Council’s workforce, bringing fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and a positive energy to the organisation,” Mr McMahon said.

“By engaging in practical, hands-on work, cadets are developing critical skills and knowledge that will serve them throughout their careers.

“Learning on the job, they are exposed to the unique challenges and opportunities that come with serving the Bega Valley community.”

One of the hallmarks of the Cadet Program is the opportunity to participate in collaborative projects that provide a platform for learning, innovation and professional growth, while also delivering tangible value to residents.

“Our cadets presented a group research project to Councillors at a recent workshop and did an exceptional job of providing an overview of their approach to the task and how they are progressing,” Mr McMahon said.

“This initiative brought cadets from different disciplines together, allowing them to pool their expertise and deliver outcomes that benefit both Council and the broader community.

“Our cadets see firsthand how their work contributes to projects and services that touch the lives of everyone in our region, and the variety of roles and projects available makes it an exciting and rewarding place to launch a career.”

Council’s commitment to fostering local talent extends beyond the Cadet Program.

Mr McMahon said Council is also proud to support numerous trainees and apprentices who are building their careers in areas such as horticulture, infrastructure, customer service and more.

“These opportunities provide valuable pathways for skill and career development, ensuring that our workforce reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of our community,” he said.

Some young people choose local careers over city education to maintain community ties, stay connected with family and friends and pursue opportunities in regional industries. They see their rural upbringing as a positive source of identity and prefer to remain in a local environment that is familiar and supports their lifestyle.

Local councils are increasingly becoming a career of choice for young people, especially those who want to stay where they grew up.

Jake Humphrey (pictured right) is an Engineering Cadet within the Design Department at Council. Originally from Pambula, Jake distinguished himself academically, graduating as Dux of Eden Marine High School in 2022.

Following his outstanding secondary achievements, Jake received early admission to the Bachelor of Civil Engineering program at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). He subsequently spent two years undertaking full-time study while residing on campus in Sydney.

Jake’s decision to join Council was driven by a desire to return to his home region and combine practical work experience with his academic pursuits.

“When I learned Council was offering cadetships aligned with my field of study, I was eager to seize the opportunity to both study and work within the community where I grew up,” he explained.

“Since commencing my cadetship, I’ve found the practical experience within Council to be exceptionally valuable.

“I soon discovered the hands-on learning I am gaining now has, in many respects, surpassed what I learned during two years at UTS. This is largely due to the combination of daily practical application and the ongoing theoretical study I am completing through the University of Southern Queensland’s online program.”

Jake emphasised that, while his university studies provided a strong theoretical foundation, his work with Council has enabled him to understand how this knowledge is implemented in real-world projects.

“I’m now able to witness the tangible outcomes of my contributions, better appreciate how theory translates into practice on the ground and have the opportunity to give back to my community,” he said.

“Had I known about the cadetships earlier, I would have applied for one after finishing high school.”

Council cadetships involve a six-year commitment with a combination of work and study. Some cadets, such as Jake, will finish earlier after previous studies are considered.

Opportunities for cadetships, apprenticeships and traineeships are promoted widely when available, including through high school visits and information sessions.

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