Bre Dad realises plumbing dream

Brewarrina dad Chris Frail began a plumbing apprenticeship in his 30s and is loving the work and the training. Photo TWH

A Brewarrina man who decided to become a plumber in his 30s has joined a rapidly growing band of mature-aged apprentices.

Chris Frail, 35, a proud Ngemba man, had worked at Brewarrina Shire Council as a water operator for 15 years when he was given the chance to become an apprentice plumber.

He leapt at the opportunity and, with the help of TAFE NSW, is now working as a team leader and qualified plumber for the council.

The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) reports a marked shift in the age profile of people starting apprenticeships. Last year, around 40,000 people aged 25 and over commenced an apprenticeship, compared with just over 5,300 in 1995.

Meanwhile, plumbing remains on the National Skills Shortage list, with the Master Plumbers Association declaring there was a ‘critical shortage’ of skilled plumbers in NSW, particularly in regional areas.

“I’d been around plumbers my whole career but never thought I’d have an opportunity to do the trade,” Mr Frail said.

“Council has looked after me throughout my career and I want to use my new skills to help pay that back.” […]