Delivering training outcomes to regional learners

David Gould at the Sorell Jobs Hub where he completed the Agricultural Chemical skillset short course delivered by TasTAFE.

Regional learners in the State’s Southeast are benefiting from increased accessibility to vocational education and training – thanks to a partnership between TasTAFE and Business and Employment Southeast Tasmania Inc (BEST).

TasTAFE regional engagement officer Martin Killick spends a day a week working from a permanent office space at the South East Training and Jobs Hub which is home to BEST. Martin works with local businesses and individuals to ascertain local skills development and training needs and then aligns those needs with TasTAFE’s training options.

“We’ve just completed delivering a nationally recognised Agricultural Chemical skillset from the South East Training and Jobs Hub which is a direct result of having conversations with Sorell Council,” Martin said.

“Having a homebase in Sorell means we can customise training to suit a specific need, while offering increased accessibility to TasTAFE’s training for people who live and work locally.”

Participants in the short course were taught how to prepare and apply agricultural chemicals as well as how to safely handle, transport and store them. Sorell Council staff, Landcare volunteers, and local property management business owner David Gould completed the training.

“It's been good. It's very informative. The trainer was very helpful and knowledgeable; he knows what he's talking about!” David said.

“It’s improved my knowledge about chemicals and how to safely apply and store them. I’ll be able to do the jobs that the council asks me to do.”

TasTAFE CEO Dr Norman Baker visited the South East Training and Jobs Hub and checked in on the learners’ progress.

“Increasing and improving access to training for regional and remote learners is a key TasTAFE strategy, and having locals train together builds connection in the community,” Dr Baker said.

“Skills training delivers real economic gains for workers by offering a pathway to higher wages and career advancement – which is essential to keep regional communities thriving.”

David couldn’t agree more.

“It's been good that we can come here and do our training because I live locally and its less travel. The Hub is in a good spot and it’s good having that local connection as well.

“If you want to further your training and skills I would highly recommend it,” David said.

L-R: David Gould chats with TasTAFE’S Martin Killick, CEO Dr Norman Baker, and BEST Program Leader Andrew Hyatt.