Donation helps Mackay heavy auto apprentices gear up

By Greg Chapman

CQUniversity’s heavy automotive apprentices have received a boost to their training with Mackay firm Complete Parts and Equipment Solutions donating almost $80,000 of equipment to the Ooralea workshops.

The company donated Caterpillar 789B powertrain components, including two 789 Front Wheel Groups with custom stands, a 793 Transmission, a 798 Torque Converter and various hydraulic pumps.

CQU Heavy Automotive Teacher Lloyd Bray said the donation of parts and components was most welcome.

“We’d certainly been lacking these donated training aids and components,” Mr Bray said.

“The parts will enable our apprentices to complete wheel bearing setups, identify parts and see the internal workings and assess reliability, which is required under the unit of competency.”

Complete Parts and Equipment Solutions Mackay Workshop Supervisor Luke Jenkins said he was “proud to support the next generation of heavy mechanical tradespeople in Mackay”.

“Giving students access to real mining equipment components makes a huge difference. It bridges the gap between theory and the kind of work they’ll see out in the field,” Mr Jenkins said.

Luke presented the equipment recently to Teacher Lloyd Bray and formalised the handover, strengthening the connection between industry and training.

“Investing in local training builds local capability. The stronger our apprentices are today, the stronger our industry is tomorrow,” Mr Jenkins added.

“We’re proud to play a small part in that”.

Learn more about CQU’s Apprenticeship training.