Komatsu assists apprentices

More than two years after Queensland's devastating 2011 floods, Komatsu has donated the remediated machinery to TAFE colleges and registered training organisations. The backhoe, skid-steer loaders and mini-excavators will be used for hands-on, practical training in electrical and mechanical engineering, service and repair, which Komatsu say will make a significant contribution to the training of apprentices across Queensland.

Queensland's Assistant Minister for Technical and Further Education, Saxon Rice, presided over the official handover ceremony on June 18, which Komatsu hosted at its new Sherwood Training and Education Centre.

V8 Supercar legend Jamie Whincup was in attendance to support Komatsu apprentices in his capacity as Komatsu's official Apprentice Mentor.

Also present were five students from Bundamba State Secondary College who receive support and guidance from the Beacon Foundation, a non-profit organisation sponsored by Komatsu since 2001.

The Beacon Foundation has assisted high school students in attaining full-time employment or further education opportunities since 1988.