TAFE NSW is offering its specialised micro-brewing course throughout regional NSW for the first time in 2022 to support the flourishing craft beer industry.

According to Deloitte Australia, craft beer has evolved from a small industry comprised of home-brew enthusiasts to a large and rapidly growing industry with annual sales of more than $370 million, growing at a rate of around 10 per cent annually.

TAFE NSW Head of Agribusiness Skills Team in Sydney, Kate Low, said the course was developed in partnership with the Independent Brewers Association to meet a surge in demand for training.

“There has been an explosion in the Australian craft beer industry in the last decade and it shows no signs of slowing down,” she said.

“We are seeing more micro-breweries and boutique beer enterprises opening in regional areas, and that’s fantastic for our rural economies. TAFE NSW has now developed high-quality training so regional brewers can hone their craft and capitalise on that industry growth.”

Starting in early March, the Certificate III in Food Processing (Micro-brewing) is a combination of online learning and intensive workshops at the TAFE NSW micro-brewing headquarters at Ultimo. People learn via a virtual classroom and can study from home or at their local campus or Connected Learning Centre.

Previously only offered in Sydney, the course teaches in-demand foundational skills for food and beverage production as well as helping participants unlock the secrets of artisan beer-brewing.

It is taught by a team of specialists including Richard Adamson (Young Henrys Brewing) and Dan McCulloch (Lallemand Brewing) who are recognised as some of the best brewers in the business.

“The TAFE NSW micro-brewing course is a great place to start as it delivers the skills and knowledge to help kickstart a career in the brewing industry,” Mr Adamson said.

“It’s perfect for those looking to start their own business or for those wanting to gain insight into the industry and processes to brew quality products.”

Ms Low said it was worth noting that businesses have until the end of March to take advantage of the JobTrainer wage subsidy for new apprentices and trainees.

“Not only does this course provide practical, hands-on skills for aspiring brewers to hone their craft but it is also designed to teach new trainees the ropes and help them develop lifelong skills,” she said.

“This course will nurture skilled new workers and provide graduates with a nationally recognised qualification to build a successful career anywhere in Australia.”

Under the JobTrainer program, employers that sign up new apprentices or trainees before 31 March can access a 50 per cent wage subsidy over 12 months, with a 10 per cent and five per cent subsidy in the second and third years respectively.

People should register their interest for the course by 16 February. For more information visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.
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Media contact: Terra Sword, Communications Specialist. Phone: 6623 0325. Email: terra.sword@tafensw.edu.au.