When Graham Bungate began his apprenticeship at the Workshops in 1957, the term of an apprenticeship was for 5 years with one day per fortnight allocated for "off the job training" at the Technical School. Railway apprentices made up 90% of the class and because everyone knew each other classes represented a social day away from work.
In 1980 after a long and varied career at the Workshops Graham left the Railways to begin a new career as a lecturer in Technical Education, first gaining a Teaching Diploma, followed by a Bachelor of Education. Even though he was stationed at Midland he taught at Carine, Fremantle and Wembley, where classes in Fitting and Machining were once conducted. From 1988 to 1990 he worked at Collie, in 1990 he was transferred to Thornlie and in 1993 he was asked to return to Midland.
During his career Graham has concentrated on the Pre-apprentice Course - his aim has been to create an interest in his trade for school leavers through a ‘hands on’ approach. He has also been a strong advocate towards maintaining the pride and quality in workmanship he learnt at the Midland Workshops and speaking out if he has felt standards have been compromised.
In 1996 his class presented a working model of a two stroke engine to out going Managing Director Nic Gara in appreciation for his support of the course.
Graham retired in February 2003 but has since returned to Midland on a part time basis.
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