New agriculture and horticulture training for Colac

Under the new partnership South West TAFE will be offering a Certificate II in Horticulture, Certificate III in Agriculture, Certificate III in Agriculture Dairy and a range of short courses at the SkillsConnection Pound Road site in Colac.

South West TAFE Food Fibre and Land senior educator Trevor Bullen said it was the first time the organisation had had a dedicated facility to deliver agriculture and horticulture courses in Colac.

“It’s such an exciting new partnership that will have great benefits for the region. Students will be able to learn from local trainers and gain important industry skills.

“The agriculture and horticulture industries are continuing to grow in the region and for students to be able to study close to home at this new location is such a great opportunity,” he said.

Mr Bullen said the agriculture courses were perfect for people wanting to work in livestock production, cropping, mixed farming or the dairy industry.

The horticulture course is ideal for people wanting to gain a head-start into an apprenticeship, a career in horticulture or improve their gardening skills. As part of the course, horticulture students will be able to use their practical skills to landscape and enhance the grounds at SkillsConnection.

SkillsConnection CEO Marita Brady said she was very excited about the new partnership with South West TAFE as it fit perfectly with the organisation’s vision of linking people with futures.

“SkillsConnection currently provides an extensive suite of services and supports to people of all ages and abilities however our mission is to also recognise the diversity and potential of our community and to form partnerships with like-minded organisations so that together we can respond to issues impacting on individuals and community.   

“It’s great to see our unused space at Pound Road being put to use for such a great opportunity for people to learn and diversify their skills, and in turn having the students design and landscape our new sensory garden is a win-win for everyone,” she said.

For anyone wanting more information about the courses on offer and to meet the teachers, come along to an information session at the new site at 96 Pound Road, Colac on Tuesday, April 12 between 11am and 2pm.

To find out more go to swtafe.edu.au or call 1300 648 911.