REGION - Former Stawell Gold Mine workers seeking employment and individuals looking to explore their career potential are encouraged to participate in an exciting new training program that will commence tomorrow. Northern Grampians Shire Council has joined forces with the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, and local job service agencies, St Laurence Employment Services and Western District Employment Access to offer a unique opportunity under the Bounce Program. Delivered by Maryborough-based business, Bounce Consulting, the Bounce Program currently operates throughout Australia. It is designed to give participants the confidence, the motivation and the mindset to take their life to the next level. As part of the free program, a five week accredited training course will be held in Stawell for those looking to plan positive employment opportunities for 2013. Mayor Cr Wayne Rice said the comprehensive course would benefit anyone looking for employment or considering a career change. "The announcement of this potentially life-changing course is particularly timely as the Stawell Gold Mine transitions towards closure," he said. "Opportunities like this don't come around very often and I would encourage anyone seeking professional career advice to take advantage of the Bounce Program. "While there are limited places in the five week program and former Stawell Gold Mine workers will be given first priority, anyone looking for work is welcome to register." The Bounce Program will provide participants with easy-to-implement skills to enable them to reach their true potential. It integrates practical job-seeking skills, including developing a stronger resume, with activities for developing improved self-esteem and setting achievable personal visions and goals. The course is 20 days in length and will be take place at Western District Employment Access, 152 Main Street, Stawell from tomorrow. Participants need to commit to attend all sessions. The first week of the program will be held on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday between 9.30am and 2.30pm. The following weeks will involve training on the Monday, Tuesday and Thursday between 9.30am and 2.30pm. A one-on-one coaching session each Wednesday will take up to an hour. Applicants do not need to be connected to a job services agency to participate and there are no age limits. The only criteria for this program is that participants are keen to find work. Funding of $10,000 is being provided by the Australian Government through the Local Employment Coordinator Flexible Funding Program to allow participants to attend the course free of charge. Applications to the Bounce Program should be made directly to either the Western District Employment Access, 152 Main Street, Stawell, phone 5358 2799, or St Laurence Employment Services, 53 Main Street, Stawell, phone 5358 4411. For further information please call Northern Grampians Shire Council officers, Amanda Western on 0419 129 043 or Bianca Bulger on 5358 0524.