Jaycob worked as an apprentice bricklayer on the new prison at Western Plains, as one of the many trainees, cadets and apprentices completing a total of 300,000 labour hours on the project.

His road wasn’t straightforward. Jaycob faced significant challenges – he’d become disengaged from school and didn’t see a clear pathway into work.

But through the Regional Industry Sector Employment (RISE) program with the City of Greater Geelong, he gained trade skills and support to complete his Certificate 2 in Construction Pathways.

Supported by RISE, Jaycob gained an apprenticeship with local Geelong masonry company Caruso Bricklaying to work on Western Plains. Jaycob gained confidence and become a valuable team member, while working through his apprenticeship.

As well as having the opportunity to work, learn and earn money, Jaycob says the Western Plains project has given him a more positive outlook.

“My future feels bright with the people I’ve been working with, and being able to work on this big project,” he says.

Jaycob is one of more than 800 workers who worked at Western Plains – which was one of the region’s largest construction projects – building a modern and secure corrections system that keeps Victorians safe.