Carving Out His Future: Jake Begins His School-Based Apprenticeship

What began as a simple search for after‑school work has grown into a clear and exciting career pathway for Jake. On 4 February, MRAEL completed the sign‑up for Jake Quabba, who has now commenced a School‑Based Apprenticeship in Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher) with MC Butchery Moranbah.

Jake’s journey started a few years ago when he was looking for some extra pocket money. While his dad was buying meat for dinner, he approached the counter and asked if they took on after‑school or weekend workers. He brought in his résumé, and within two weeks, he was working his first afternoon as a junior. It didn’t take long for him to realise that this wasn’t just a part‑time job — it was something he genuinely enjoyed.

As Jake explains, “Still to this day I love my job. I come home happy, and the days I’m not there I want to go just to hang out.”

Over time, he has built a strong range of practical and workplace skills, including communication, customer service, time management, crumbing different cuts of meat, making sausages and rissoles, and preparing marinades.

Jake’s interest in butchery also runs deeper than the shop floor. His grandparents own a property with cattle, and he often helped when it was time to do a kill. He later discovered that his great‑grandad had been a butcher and once owned the local shop where Jake was born. Although he once thought mining would be his direction after school, he now knows that butchery is what makes him happiest.

His parents have been very encouraging of his decision to take on a School‑Based Apprenticeship, supporting him as he works towards a trade — and, as Jake mentioned, they’re excited for future BBQs. He also credits his mentors at MC Butchery — Rohan, Terri and Thomas — for helping him grow in confidence and skill.

The team at MC Butchery is equally proud of Jake and the enthusiasm he brings to the workplace. They shared,

“Jake’s love for the job shines through every shift. He brings energy, positivity and authenticity to the workplace. We’re proud to support him through his School‑Based Apprenticeship and excited for his future.”

For students considering a School‑Based Apprenticeship, Jake’s story is a reminder that you don’t need everything figured out to make a great start. Sometimes it begins with one small step — like asking a workplace if they have after‑school jobs going. That moment can lead to a job you genuinely enjoy, new skills, supportive mentors and a career pathway that feels right for you. A School‑Based Apprenticeship is a great way to gain real experience while still at school, build confidence and get hands‑on with a trade you might love. With MRAEL supporting you throughout the journey, from sign‑up to workplace check‑ins, you’re never doing it alone.

MRAEL is proud to support Jake as he builds a future in a trade he enjoys. Christine, our Apprentice and Employment Consultant, joined Jake and his parents at the sign‑up and will continue to support him throughout his apprenticeship journey.

Pictured (L-R): Christine (our Apprentice and Employment Consultant), Jake’s parents, Jake and Rohan (Owner of MC Butchery Moranbah) were all present for the sign‑up.