$5 MILLION LAND PURCHASE FOR NEW TRADE TRAINING CENTRE

The Beattie Government has secured a $5 million parcel of land in Mackay to establish SkillsTech Australia’s first purpose-built regional campus for trade and technician training.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the 3.39 hectare site would provide up to 12,000 square metres of classrooms and workshops to teach automotive; building and construction; electrical and electronic; plumbing; engineering; and manufacturing trades.

“The site is located in a high profile industrial precinct in the suburb of Paget and is surrounded by engineering and earthmoving companies,” Mr Welford said.

“It’s also just 10 minutes drive to the local Central Queensland Institute of TAFE campus in the city centre.

“This positioning will help the trade centre to develop effective working links with local industry and businesses.”

Mr Welford said the SkillsTech Australia Mackay campus is expected to have its first intake of students in mid-2009.

“Securing the land in Mackay is the first step to developing major trades and technical training centres in regional Queensland,” he said.

“Preliminary planning is also underway for the delivery of a SkillsTech campus in Townsville.

“The SkillsTech Australia centres, which include campuses at Acacia Ridge and Eagle Farm, are part of the State Government’s $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan to help address skills shortages.

“TAFE Queensland is being reorganised to better meet the current and future needs of industry, employers, workers and students.

“SkillsTech Australia will lead all TAFE training and product development for crucial trades.”

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000