General News
26 June, 2026
Careers expo opens doors for Wimmera students
EXPLORING opportunities beyond the classroom was the focus of the Western Victoria Careers Expo, which brought together students, employers, and training providers to discuss future pathways.
From university courses and apprenticeships to emergency services and agriculture, the expo showcased a diverse selection of career options available to young people across the Wimmera.
Parks Victoria was among the exhibitors at the event, with community ranger Bill Playne saying the expo provided young people with access to a wealth of career information and opportunities.
“This is such a fantastic event,” he said.
“To bring together all of these stalls in one spot and make it available to young people across the region is just wonderful.”
Echoing Mr Playne’s comments on the value of exposing young people to a range of opportunities, Royal Flying Doctor Service Victoria representative Rose James said career expos played an important role in connecting students with future employment pathways.
“We have a whole generation of young people coming up and so many opportunities in rural and regional Victoria that need to be filled.”
“There is a strong demand for nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals, and here at the Royal Flying Doctor Services, we’re trying to bridge that gap.
“Hopefully, events like this will inspire more young people to become involved in the sector.”
Child protection practitioner Catherine Evans, who represented Child Protection services at the expo, said regional communities do not often have the opportunity to host events of this scale.
“I don’t think we get enough expos or showcases in regional areas, as they’re often held in larger cities,” she said.
“We have some fantastic programs and organisations through the Wimmera, so it’s a great opportunity for local students to see what’s available to them,” she said.
The free chips pass proved a popular drawcard among students attending the expo, but many said the event was much more than just a complimentary snack.
Wimmera Lutheran College students Cassara Rowan and Noah Eilola said the expo provided valuable information on future career opportunities and potential pathways after school.
"I think this career expo gives insight into what kids can do with their future." Miss Rowan said.
“It helps people find something they’re interested in and shows them the different options available to them,” Mr Eiloa said.
Donald students Oakley Brennan and Ryder Hudson, who were interested in pursuing careers in the trades, said the expo exceeded their expectations and provided insight into potential career pathways.
“I didn’t expect the exhibition to take up two sheds,” Mr Brennan said.
“It was an eye-opener about what you have to do to get into some jobs,” Mr Hudson added.
Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN executive officer, Vanessa O’Loughlin, said the expo was a success, with students and exhibitors embracing the opportunities it offered.
“The day was filled with positive energy and plenty of smiles,” she said.
As students explored stalls, asked questions, and connected with industry representatives, the expo offered a glimpse of the many opportunities that could shape their future careers.