13 September 2022

TAFE NSW civil construction teachers are giving Collarenebri locals job-ready skills as part of the Roads to Home program.

Roads to Home is a NSW Government partnership with Local Aboriginal Lands Councils. It aims to deliver essential infrastructure upgrades and maintenance to Aboriginal communities across NSW and provide training and employment opportunities to locals.

17 students are completing their Statement of Attainment in Civil Construction, with practical training taking place at the Collarenebri Reserve (The Walli) and taught by teachers from TAFE NSW Orange.

“Equipping locals with skills in civil construction greatly improves their employment opportunities,” said TAFE NSW Head Teacher Civil Construction, Lindsay Griffith.

“This TAFE NSW training qualifies students to work on future projects and find jobs in the region, and also provides a pipeline of skilled workers for local employers,” said Mr Griffith.

The two groups of students completed TAFE NSW Civil Construction training in two weeks blocks, which involved both theory and practical units. Graduates of the program are qualified to safely use a Loader, Dozer, Excavator and Skid Steer Loader.

Along with the practical training, students learned communication, collaboration, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Chief Executive Officer of Collarenebri Local Aboriginal Lands Council, Jason Hall, said these important transferable skills are what local employers are looking for.

“The students have been enjoying their training with TAFE NSW, especially being out on the machinery and learning to use it safely on site at The Walli,” said Mr Hall.

“We’re looking forward to seeing these graduates be able to fill local jobs in roads, farming, upgrades, and maintenance.”

Media contact: Amy Johnson, amy.johnson87@tafensw.edu.au phone 02 7921 0354