Student Story – Trainees at Mid-Western Regional Council

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04 Aug 2026

To develop the specialised professional skills needed in our region, Mid-Western Regional Council employs trainees in areas including Town Planning, Surveying, and Environmental Health. Drawing professionals to regional areas can be challenging, but developing the skills and qualifications of local people creates professionals already committed and connected to the local community.

For these students, Country Universities Centre Mudgee Region provides valuable facilities such as bookable study rooms, a quiet atmosphere, and long access hours.

“The CUC has given me a space that I can dedicate to studying only,” says Trainee Building Surveyor Ruby Bowmaker.

“It allows my brain to switch into my work, instead of looking around the house at home to find any other task (i.e. laundry) that I can do instead. It’s quiet and adaptable to allow study in any style seating you feel at the time.”

The traineeship can be just the beginning of a career journey – and a study journey. Zane Bowmaker completed the same traineeship as his sister Ruby and is now working towards an Advanced Diploma of Health and Building Surveying.

“It’s been a bit of a juggle, but I allocate time every day after work to study,” says Zane.

“Council gives me 5–6 paid study days a year, which I can take whenever I want. Having a whole day to get paid to study is incredible.”

Staying in the region to gain his qualification has many advantages for Zane.

“I can stay close to my family and friends. I didn’t have to move away like many of my mates who went to uni, so I’m not paying high rent or living costs. Financially and personally, it’s a huge benefit.”

“I enjoy the challenge of learning the most,” says Ruby.

“Being able to identify the gap in my knowledge but know where to find the answer is very rewarding.”