Bengalla Mining Company Crowned Large Host Employer of the Year

Bengalla Mining Company, a long-term partner of MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees, has been named Large Host Employer of the Year 2024 at the Apprentice Employment Network (AEN) NSW & ACT Awards.

The award recognises Bengalla's exceptional commitment to vocational education and training, and their outstanding contribution to developing the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

Located near Muswellbrook in the Upper Hunter Valley, Bengalla Mining Company has partnered with MIGAS since 2013, hosting 72 apprentices and trainees with an impressive 93% completion rate. The company currently hosts 25 apprentices across Electrical, Mobile Plant Technology, and Engineering trades.

"This award is a testament to Bengalla's unwavering dedication to apprentice development and their innovative approach to training," said MIGAS Chief Executive, David Hoey.

"Their commitment goes far beyond standard apprenticeship requirements, providing comprehensive support and unique opportunities for skills development."

Apprentices are exposed to all areas of Bengalla operations during their training, including maintenance, mining, and Coal Handling and Processing Plant (CHPP) departments.

The longstanding partnership with MIGAS showcases Bengalla's dedication to fostering skilled tradespeople and contributing to the broader community.

The company's commitment to community engagement in the Muswellbrook, Upper Hunter and Singleton Shires is demonstrated through their annual Apprentice Community Project, where third-year MIGAS apprentices take leadership roles in local infrastructure projects.

Apprentices also actively participate in numerous local events throughout the year, from careers expos to local shows and festivals, and the Bengalla Community Open Day.

"What sets Bengalla apart is their holistic approach to apprentice development," said Mr Hoey.

"They combine technical training with safety initiatives, personal development, and community involvement to create well-rounded trade professionals."

The success of Bengalla's program is evident in their retention rates, with over 50% of completed apprentices and trainees gaining permanent employment with the company post-completion. Their commitment to diversity is also noteworthy, with 10% of completed apprentices being female in traditionally male-dominated trades.

The AEN Awards are highly regarded in the vocational education and training sector, celebrating excellence in apprenticeship and traineeship programs across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.

MIGAS trainees, Isabella Bruce and Jackson Pead, were also named as finalists in the AEN Awards Trainee of Year and First Nations Trainee of Year categories respectively.