Cousins work as a team

Cousins Warrick Long and Greg Connors are together following in the footsteps of several Indigenous men and women who have treaded a career pathway at Telfer.
Warrick (26) was a member of the Jigalong contingent of trainees who undertook the Telfer-based trainee course in 2009 under the instruction of Bruce Keane.
After successfully completing the course, which included a strong work experience component, Warrick secured employment as a Pit Technician with Telfer's Exploration department.
It was not long before Greg also sought and secured a similar role in Exploration.
After proving their capabilities, both men were recently transferred to Telfer's Light Vehicles section. There, they undertook some 'housekeeping.'
“Our Stores area was a bit of a shambles,” explained Acting Supervisor Luigi Santovito. “Over the years, a lot of stuff had just been dumped in there.
“So, we got Warrick and Greg to sort it all out. They did, very efficiently, in little time. The longer-term plan is for both of them to become Trades Assistants.”
Warrick, married and with two young boys in tow, is enjoying his week-on-week-off life and work in Special Vehicles.
“There are new challenges there, and more things to learn as a Trades Assistant,” he said. “It's good for my future, and Telfer is a good place to work.”
Greg, who lives in Broome, agrees. “I was fortunate to be given an opportunity to work in the mining industry,” he said.
“I like Telfer, and hope eventually to drive bulldozers and excavators, but I am enjoying my time here in Light Vehicles, and the blokes working here. They're all good characters.”

Left: Luigi keeps a guiding eye on Warrick and Greg.