Growing futures: How a footy tipping win sparked a hands-on apprenticeship opportunity

A prize with purpose

In 2021, CVGT Employment CEO Jason Russell took out the top spot in the Bendigo Advertiser footy tipping competition. The prize—100 square metres of premium turf—was generously donated by Coolabah Turf, a standout local business with roots in Echuca and strong ties to the Bendigo region.

Rather than keeping the prize, CVGT saw an opportunity to give back. We approached the City of Greater Bendigo with a simple idea: let’s donate the turf to a local project that benefits the community and creates a hands-on learning opportunity for young people.

From turf donation to transformation

“Trying to find a local community project to donate 100 square metres of turf to has been an interesting problem to have, and possibly why it has taken a few years to resolve,” Mr Russell said.

The City identified a newly irrigated parcel of land at the railway end of Lake Weeroona as an ideal site. From there, the project quickly took shape—with the turf set to rejuvenate the public space for locals and visitors alike.

Best of all, the turf wasn’t just donated—it was laid by the City’s own Parks and Open Space apprentices, supported by CVGT Employment’s Apprenticeships & Traineeships team.

A longstanding partnership with local impact

This collaboration is just one example of the strong partnership between CVGT Employment and the City of Greater Bendigo. Since 2018, CVGT has supported over 70 apprentices and trainees to launch their careers with the City—across a variety of roles that contribute directly to the maintenance and improvement of public spaces.

Backing local talent and local business

The project also shines a light on Coolabah Turf, not only as the generous donor of the prize, but as a valued local employer. With operations in both Echuca and Bendigo, Coolabah Turf offers a range of apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities in turf production, horticulture, logistics and more—playing an important role in developing the region’s future workforce.

“Coolabah Turf have been really supportive and understanding through the process,” said Jason.

Growing stronger communities together

What began with a bit of friendly competition has grown into a lasting contribution—thanks to three local organisations working together to build skills, support local talent, and invest in community spaces.

We are thrilled to donate it to the City for this project that not only beautifies this open space at Lake Weeroona but also gives the City’s CVGT apprentices a chance to work on a great collaborative project.

Jason Russell, CVGT Employment CEO

It’s a great snapshot of what hands-on learning looks like, and the pride our apprentices take in their work.

To learn more about CVGT Employment and how we support apprenticeships and traineeships, visit cvgt.com.au