21 September, 2020

A ferocious hailstorm that swept Canberra in January has provided the perfect “vehicle” for TAFE NSW Wagga Wagga automotive students to refine their skills.

IAG, Australia’s largest general insurer, which operates under major brands including NRMA Insurance and CGU, recently donated a Holden Cruze, one of an estimated 20,000 vehicles damaged during the wild storm, to TAFE NSW Wagga Wagga. The car will be used as a hands-on learning tool for local autobody repair, light vehicle and auto-electrical apprentices.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Automotive Refinishing Ian Chalmers thanked IAG and said the vehicles would help bolster the skills of the region’s automotive repair workforce of tomorrow.

“Because they are late-model vehicles, these cars would be a valuable teaching asset because of the mechanical and electrical technology they contain,” Mr Chalmers said.

“This is a great example of the practical training and experience TAFE NSW provides apprentices and reflects the unparalleled partnerships that are maintained with industry bodies, like IAG.

“These vehicles are already in our workshops and benefiting local students.”

Mr Chalmers said it was heartening to see Australia’s largest training provider, TAFE NSW, and one of the nation’s leading insurance companies working together to improve the industry’s skills base.

“IAG wants to see a strong, highly-trained workforce, just like we do,” he said.

IAG’s Executive Manager Motor Assessing, David Wilkes, said IAG was dedicated to supporting the next generation of repairers.

“Over the last five years the technology in motor vehicles has advanced rapidly, so it’s critical that automotive students can examine and hone their skills on the latest vehicles so that they’re as well prepared as possible to step into the repair industry,” Mr Wilkes said.

“We’re proud to be able to help support and grow the skills of these students who in the future will help get motorists back on the road with a safe, high-quality repair.”

To find out more about studying at TAFE NSW, phone 13 16 01 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

Media contact: Daniel Johns, TAFE NSW Media and Communications – Business Partner, 6938 1441, mobile 0477 722 428.