Autobody Open Day showcases new, fit-for-purpose TasTAFE training facility
Published on: 27 Aug 2025
L–R: PPG Industries Tasmanian Sales Representative, Sebastian Stadnicki; TACC State Manager, Bruce McIntosh; TasTAFE Interim CEO, Will McShane; Spectrum Car Paints Tasmania Sales Representative, Michael Mace; and Tasmanian State Sales Manager Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes, Geoff Tolhurst.
An Open Day at TasTAFE’s Devonport Campus on 27 August showcased a new Autobody Training Facility to invited industry partners, learners, apprentices and TasTAFE staff.
The new fit-for-purpose facility comprises a new spray-painting booth, paint mixing room, and paint preparation equipment. It provides learners, and industry autobody and refinishing apprentices access to an industry-standard training environment.
The refurbished Autobody Training Facility was funded by the Australian Government’s TAFE Technology Fund project, and developed with assistance from automotive employers, suppliers and the Tasmanian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (TACC).
The Open Day included spray-painting demonstrations, autobody industry displays, and presentations of Certificates of Appreciation to industry partners Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes, Spectrum Car Paints and PPG Industries, who donated paint products and colour-mixing technologies, computers and software.
“Having strong partnerships with industry helps to make training relevant and satisfy employers’ needs for tailored training delivery and assessment,” said TasTAFE’s Interim CEO, Will McShane.
“Central to the concept of partnership is having an agreed purpose; that is, to deliver the best training that benefits individuals, the community, industry and the economy.”
Speaking at the Open Day, valued TasTAFE industry partner, TACC State Manager Bruce McIntosh said the Autobody facility upgrades marked a significant milestone.
“Today marks a significant milestone – not just for TACC … but for the future of skilled trades and the body repair and refinishing division of our automotive trades,” Mr McIntosh said.
“Investments in new technology provide industry the confidence to engage more with our young people, to encourage automotive careers and to help meet the demand created by a skills shortage.
“TACC would like to extend a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to our training partners, sponsors, educators, and the government departments for believing in this vision and helping bring it to life. Your interest in automotive and desire to support us continues to be invaluable.”
Mr McShane said those interested in starting an automotive career should consider enrolling in TasTAFE's Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation, which is currently being offered as a Fee-Free TAFE education option.
Testing the new equipment at Devonport Campus.
