Media releases
Stay up to date with the latest Gold Coast Institute of TAFE news and feature stories.
If you would like to be added to the media distribution list for media releases issued from the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE please contact the Public Relations Manager on (07) 5581 8801.
Please check back here regularly for updated information.
Gold Coast apprentices compete for national title
Volunteer tutors find teaching English a rewarding pastime
Gold Coast TAFE trainee on the road to success
Gold Coast TAFE to become statutory institute
Golden opportunity for TAFE fashion design students
Free professional career counselling at Gold Coast TAFE
Family, community and work are driving factors for Indigenous role model
On your marks... get set... cook at Gold Coast TAFE!
Hospitality student set to gain job ready skills at tourism futures conference
Gold Coast TAFE Tourism student of the year secures a rewarding career in Event Management
Quality teachers with real-world experience at Gold Coast TAFE
Historic 2020 summit a poignant highlight
Property investors can make educated and informed choices thanks to Gold Coast TAFE
Gold Coast TAFE water-wise plumbing training centre set to be launched
Never too old to study online at Gold Coast TAFE
Travel the world at Gold Coast TAFE without a passport
TAFE graduate climbs corporate ladder
Boost business skills at Gold Coast TAFE
Fate brings TAFE student and teacher together
Grow your career and obtain a qualification
Study proves to be a rewarding path to empowerment
Expand your mind at Gold Coast TAFE Careers Expo
Gold Coast apprentices compete for national title
Two Gold Coast TAFE apprentices will put their trade skills to test against Australia's best at the Worldskills Australia National Competition in Sydney from 11 to 13 July.
James Martin and Alex Makelainen were winners at the South East Queensland regional final WorldSkills Australia competition last October.
James Martin, 21, of Terranora, the winner of the Steel Construction category said he sees the competition as an opportunity of a lifetime to be able to compete for a chance to represent his country overseas.
"I work full-time at Russell Heale Engineering as a trainee truck and trailer fabricator," Mr Martin said.
"I got into fabricating because my dad owns a skip bin company and I started welding new bins.
"This prompted me to obtain trade qualifications which I have just successfully completed.
"I am very pleased to be representing the Gold Coast as it shows how far I have come with my trade and how my skills compare with other students in Australia.
"It is also a fantastic achievement to add to my resume as I would like to continue to excel within my trade.
"I have dedicated many hours to rolling, cutting and bending all sorts of shapes to prepare for the nationals.
"Overall I'm feeling well prepared and looking forward to competing at the national level.
"It would be very proud to represent Australia in the international WorldSkills competition in Canada, 2009," he said.
Institute Director, Deb Daly said WorldSkills Australia provided a unique opportunity for participants to test their trade skills against those of their peers locally and nationally.
"The competition challenges young people and will test their skill and resilience against projects designed by experts from all over Australia.
"James and Alex have shown tremendous ability and commitment to their training at Gold Coast TAFE and we wish them every success at the national competition.
"Gold Coast TAFE will be flying the flag high at the nationals with two competitors and two teachers assisting as a judge and a Team Leader." she said.
July 7, 2008
Volunteer tutors find teaching English a rewarding pastime
The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program at Gold Coast TAFE attracts volunteers from all walks of life.
Three tutors who were keen to share their story of why they joined the volunteer program all share a passion for the English language and learning about other cultures.
Joan Bassard from Burleigh Waters said she always wanted to teach English overseas but was busy running a building company until retiring in 1992.
"I found I was becoming a bit of a recluse in my retirement and took the plunge to complete a disability course three years ago," Ms Bassard said.
"Studying gave me a new lease on life and I decided to follow my lifetime dream of teaching English.
"I tutor two Japanese students and I have formed wonderful friendships with them.
"I am often invited to their important family celebrations and another bonus is that I have formed valuable friendships with some of the other tutors", she said.
Dawn Barnett of Nerang recently retired after completing a fulfilling career in counselling at a medical centre.
"My main reason for becoming a tutor was to keep my mind agile," Ms Barnett said.
"I am fortunate to have a very busy social life being involved in a writing and book club, yoga and swimming.
"I am currently tutoring three students from Japan, China and South America.
"I am thrilled because my Chinese student has just passed her citizenship test and I am assisting the South American student with her final nursing exams.
"On a couple of occasions I have taken students on outings to the shops and the library and get a lot of enjoyment watching them interact with the new English skills," she said.
Tutor John McCreadie from Carrara served in the national service in 1949 in Malaysia as a physical trainer, spent a lengthy career as a national fitness officer in Queensland and even served as a athletics coach for the special Olympics.
John said he retired when he was 60 and found himself in the position of having spare time on his hands and looking for 'something' to fill the gap.
"I saw the ad in the paper for the volunteer tutor program and decided to donate my time to the program.
I have really enjoyed the last five years and found the challenge of tutoring students extremely rewarding.
"I have been fortunate to experience many different cultures through the eyes of my students from Thailand, Vietnam, Spain, Korea and Cambodia.
"I was fortunate to form a lasting friendship with an elderly Japanese student who was formerly a scientific engineer with Mitsubishi, due to our shared love of Japanese cinema.
"I would recommend to anyone who has a passion for the English language and has some spare time on their hands to look at the ESL volunteer program as it is extremely rewarding," Mr McCreadie said.
Institute Director, Deb Daly said the institute offers a free course in volunteer tutoring which provides the opportunity for volunteers to acquire skills, knowledge and attitudes required for successful tutoring of adults in the area of ESL.
"We have so many remarkable volunteers from all walks of life in the ESL program who donate their time.
"Quite often the tutors receive just as much back from volunteering as the students do," Ms Daly said.
The six-week course in Volunteer Tutoring for English as a Second Language commences at Gold Coast TAFE on 30 July at the Southport Campus.
For further information please call the Customer Service Centre on (07) 5581 8300 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au.
June 30, 2008
Gold Coast TAFE trainee on the road to success
17-year-old Kyle Ford is beaming with pride as he has been named a Gold Coast regional finalist in the 2008 Queensland Training Awards.
Kyle from Burleigh Heads completed a school based traineeship with Gold Coast Planning Pty Ltd and has a one in three chance of taking out the category of Trainee of the Year.
Today Kyle is testament to his philosophy that with every new day we have the power to strive for personal success.
Kyle said it was a different story in year eight and nine when school peer pressure saw him skipping classes and eventually found himself in front of the principal with a bleak future.
"With the support of my parents, principal and teachers at Elanora State High School who believed in my potential, I made the conscious decision to change my attitude towards my studies.
"I realised that it was time to buckle down and get myself working harder in order to create a brighter future for myself.
"In 2006 I was accepted into TAFE one day per week where I completed a Certificate III in Multimedia.
"I then spoke to our careers placement officer who advised me I could apply for a school traineeship and I was successful in being granted a Certificate III in Business Administration.
"During my traineeship, I was given the opportunity to gain workplace skills and complete a tertiary course within a working environment which gave me a sense of belonging," he said.
Kyle added that with dedication to his studies he soon became an asset to the company and really enjoyed sharing his up-to-date knowledge in technology.
"On completion of my traineeship, I was awarded with the Certificate III in Business Administration and I knew I was on my way to changing my future.
"And at the end of 2007 I was successful in securing a scholarship with Gold Coast TAFE to undertake a Diploma in Business Management this year.
"With the money I saved by being granted my scholarship, I made the conscious decision to sponsor a child from the People's Republic of China.
"My sponsor child is now eight years old and I receive great satisfaction in getting updates on his progress," Kyle said.
June 30, 2008
Gold Coast TAFE to become statutory institute
Gold Coast Institute of TAFE will tomorrow (July) embark on a new era as an independent statutory authority in Queensland's TAFE network.
Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said Gold Coast TAFE's move to a statutory institute represented another initiative under the $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan.
"The institute has taken advantage of reforms made in 2007 to the Vocational Education, Training and Employment Act 2000 so that it can become a statutory institute," Mr Welford said.
"The statutory authority model offers a framework for Gold Coast Institute to be more flexible, cost-effective and autonomous.
"These corporate governance arrangements increase the capacity of institutes to develop industry partnerships and grow the commercial component of their business in a competitive vocational education and training market.
"Statutory TAFE institutes will be better equipped to be more responsive to individual and industry needs."
Mr Welford said the move would allow the institute to invest in their infrastructure and resources to meet the future training needs of Queensland, particularly in the rapidly developing Gold Coast region.
"As a statutory institute, Gold Coast TAFE will be required to compete more freely in the national market to address identified skill shortages," he said.
"At the same time students will continue to receive the highest standard of vocational education and training by dedicated teachers and staff."
In 2007 Gold Coast Institute of TAFE was awarded Queensland's Public Training Provider of the Year at the Queensland Training Awardsas an innovative leader offering vocational education and training services to international, national and local clients.
On 1 April this year Southbank Institute of Technology became the first statutory institute in Queensland's TAFE network.
Mr Welford said Gold Coast Institute of TAFE would offer VET FEE-HELP assistance to eligible students in the future, enabling them to access loans to pay part or all of their tuition fees.
The Gold Coast Institute of TAFE board is expected to be announced by the end of July 2008.
Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000
Golden opportunity for TAFE fashion design students
More than 20 Gold Coast TAFE fashion design students have been presented with an opportunity of a lifetime.
Currumbin RSL has invited Gold Coast TAFE fashion students to enter a competition to design their new corporate uniform.
The winner will receive $250 cash with the remaining students receiving a $40 voucher each from the club to spend in the a la carte restaurant.
The students will select garments from the Totally Workwear range which will be suitable for five different groups of departmental staff and will complement the contemporary earthy tones of the decor.
Two students who have welcomed the valuable opportunity is Abena Messan and Ella Spark.
21 year-old Abena from Broadbeach, originally from Melbourne, said it is a great experience and she really looks forward to the challenge.
"Fashion design is in my blood as my aunty who has since passed away was my inspiration to get in the fashion design industry.
"I remember when I was a little girl I used to help her design and sew my Barbie doll's clothing.
"I have always liked to dress differently from everyone else with lots of colours and accessories.
"My long term goal is to have my own label and business in Melbourne.
"I already have design ideas in my mind and can't wait to put pen to paper to start fleshing them out," she said.
On the other hand, 18 year-old Ella from Palm Beach left school in year 11 and completed the Certificate III in Fashion Design last year with Gold Coast TAFE and loved it so much she enrolled in the Certificate IV course this year.
"This competition is such a great opportunity to get your name out into the marketplace should you be the successful winner of the design for the new corporate uniforms.
"Since I attended a site inspection of the club, I can't wait to start designing as I have been inspired by their earthy decor.
Chief Executive Officer of Currumbin RSL, Anne Stovin said "We are extremely pleased to have Gold Coast TAFE fashion design students involved in the design of our new corporate uniform.
"We have provided the students with our colour palette and logos from our recent renovations and a general brief that we are looking for something quite different from our past uniform.
"We are looking for a uniform which is contemporary, impressionable and in harmony with our new decor and which shows unity amongst our team.
"A panel of judges will vote on the winning design which will then be sent to Totally Workwear Gold Coast to start the manufacture of the uniform.
"We then plan to launch the new uniform to all staff in October", she said.
June 24, 2008
Free professional career counselling at Gold Coast TAFE
Over 120,000 Gold Coast residents will find a 'together, anything's possible' postcard inviting them to attend free career counselling sessions in their letterboxes on 10 and 11 June.
For those residents who are considering a job or career change they are urged to attend the career counselling sessions to seek professional advice.
Gold Coast TAFE Institute Director Deb Daly said our qualified counsellors are trained to guide and assist residents in making the right career decision for their future.
"We are aware that making career choices are difficult and it helps to discuss your options with our professionals who will also assist by conducting a professional 'career' test.
"We are enrolling now for our mid year intake and our career sessions will help people get the right advice to make the right career choice for them.
"We are offering two sessions, one in our Ashmore Campus theatre on 18 June from 5 to 6pm and the second on the ground floor, Southport Campus on 25 June from 5 to 6pm," she said.
According to Ms Daly there is an extensive range of programs including Certificates, Diplomas, Dual Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas which are being offered across the institute's five campuses.
"There is such a vast scope of study options available for people looking to gain new skills, enhance their career opportunities or gain a pathway to University or further study.
"The career counselling sessions will appeal to people from all walks of life, including school leavers, working professionals, mature-aged and people wanting to re-enter the workforce," she said.
Gold Coast TAFE offers flexible learning options in many courses including full-time, part-time and online delivery.
Anyone interested in registering for the free career counselling sessions at Gold Coast TAFE should call (07) 5581 8618.
For enquiries regarding semester two enrolments please contact our Customer Service Team on (07) 5518 8300 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au.
June 2, 2008
Family, community and work are driving factors for Indigenous role model
Gold Coast TAFE student, Jodi Sampson has cemented a solid foundation for success and in return has gained a renewed confidence in tertiary education and become a valued Indigenous leader in his community.
Jodi has now enrolled in his second course at Gold Coast Institute of TAFE and currently undertaking the Certificate IV in Life and Business Coaching.
Mr Sampson said as an Indigenous person who had no education role model in his up-bringing, he took it upon himself to ensure he was a role model for his two sons.
"My ultimate goal is to gain as much knowledge to become a qualified business coach and to bridge the gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the mainstream business community," he said.
According to Jodi since completing his first TAFE Certificate IV in Business Governance, he is now able to participate in any community organisation's plans for the future with confidence.
"This course was delivered under a "Flexible Learning" arrangement, which allowed the engagement of my Brothers from Ngulli Gau-Rema Aboriginal Men's Group.
"This created a learning framework that encouraged our participation and brought out the best in us all.
"Before starting TAFE I had no goals for myself, but I was always there for others in terms of assisting them to reach their dreams and their aspirations.
"I realised that I had to be true to myself and so I took the time to talk to my manager at Blak Business Smart Business Hub about our business plan, priorities and direction and my family regarding what was needed to be negotiated for me to accomplish the TAFE challenge.
"Today is quite a different story whereby I find myself having a good foundation for my growth, renewed confidence in tertiary education and a valued Indigenous leader for my community" Mr Sampson said.
June 3, 2008
On your marks... get set... cook at Gold Coast TAFE!
Gold Coast residents are invited to attend the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE 'Tasty TAFE Cook Off' in Visions Restaurant, Ashmore Campus on 19 June.
Guests will experience two Gold Coast TAFE chefs racing against the clock to create the most innovative three course meal.
At the conclusion of the 'cook off' the audience will move to the restaurant to delight their tastebuds and vote on the best creation on the night.
Institute Director, Deb Daly said the 'cook off' is an important event on our calendar and is an opportunity for the students to have some fun whilst being assessed.
"On the night our live production and theatre students will be creating a studio style setting with the end result being a professionally run production.
"In addition our cookery students will be sweating it out in the kitchen duplicating the meals from the 'cook off' for the audience.
"And to complete the overall Gold Coast TAFE experience our wait staff will be on hand to ensure a memorable evening.
"Gauging by the positive feedback we received from last year's guests, I can thoroughly recommend this event to Gold Coast residents," Ms Daly said.
To complement the fun-filled evening, Australian family owned Tyrrell's Wines will be showcasing their range of exquisite wines on the night, with the audience invited to participate in a wine tasting.
If you are a wine connoisseur you will enjoy the timeless selection of Tyrell's Wines which offers Australia's oldest and most awarded collection of wines.
Gold Coast residents are urged to book early by calling (07) 5581 8470 to avoid missing out on the 'Tasty TAFE Cook Off'.
Tickets are available at just $39 per person and include the wine tasting, show and a three course meal.
Hot Tomato listeners will have the opportunity to win 10 double passes to the 'Tasty TAFE Cook Off' which will be given away during the breakfast show from 9 - 13 June.
29 May 2008
Hospitality student set to gain job ready skills at tourism futures conference
Kaz Miyazawa from Tokyo is looking forward to gaining valuable work experience at the Tourism Futures Conference to be held at the Royal Pines Golf Resort next week.
Mr Miyazawa undertook the Diploma of Hospitality Management at Gold Coast TAFE and has fallen in love with the Gold Coast and the hospitality industry.
According to Kaz it has always been a burning ambition to own and manage his own business and he is determined to make this a reality.
"While I'm very confident with the hospitality training I have received, I now need to gain some practical skills and working at the Tourism Futures Conference will certainly assist.
"My commitment to my training in the hospitality field has been a driving force to help me get a step closer to reaching my dreams.
"I will carry the benefits of my training at Gold Coast TAFE with me throughout my career," he said.
Mr Miyazawa went on to say he really enjoyed his TAFE course as it has allowed him to experience many cultures while improving his knowledge to obtain his goals.
"TAFE has also organised the work experience at the Tourism Futures conference and work placement and I am very grateful for these opportunities.
"It will be interesting to work at a large event and gain valuable experience and reinforce what I have learnt at TAFE.
"I hope to gain my residency in a couple of months and then can start working towards my goal of being a successful chef within my own restaurant," he said.
Institute Director, Deb Daly said the success of our hospitality training can be attributed to the students gaining valuable experience working in our training restaurants which are open to the public.
"Our students leave with job-ready skills which makes the transition from TAFE to the work environment so much easier.
"In addition our programs have been designed in close consultation with business and industry to ensure students have up-to-date and industry-relevant skills and knowledge.
"Our tourism and hospitality courses could lead to an exciting and rewarding career in a variety of establishments on the Gold Coast including restaurants, hotels, theme parks, retail and international travel agents, airlines, convention centres, casinos, island resorts, cruise ships and much more," Ms Daly said.
Anyone seeking more information about courses available in Semester two at Gold Coast TAFE should contact the customer service team at Gold Coast Institute of TAFE on (07) 5581 8300 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au.
28 May 2008
Gold Coast TAFE Tourism student of the year secures a rewarding career in Event Management
Dedication to her studies has certainly paid off for Kristen Moss when she was awarded 2007 Student of the Year for the Tourism and Hospitality Faculty at the Gold Coast TAFE Graduation last year.
Earlier this year Kristen was successful in securing a position in event management at the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa.
Ms Moss said she loves her job at the Marriott as she is the 'face of the business centre' and assists the event co-ordinators and event manager in all facets of function organisation.
"I feel so fortunate to be working at such a beautiful property in magnificent surroundings," she said.
Kristen attended Pacific Pines State High School and chose to undertake a hotel/motel front office and a bar operations course at Gold Coast TAFE while completing year 11 and 12.
Last year Kristen was successful in obtaining direct entry into Gold Coast TAFE to undertake the Diploma of Event management.
Kristen said she also completed a Diploma of Hospitality Management and found the affordability of studying these courses at TAFE a great incentive to further her studies.
"I enjoyed both courses immensely and really appreciated the way my TAFE teachers had up-to-date experience in their field and shared their knowledge with me.
"During my studies I was also fortunate to work as a volunteer at the Gold Coast Exhibition and Convention Centre for Clubs NSW and Microsoft.
"I also found the practical experience gained in the training restaurant at TAFE was a huge benefit.
"This experience enabled me to obtain work at a local restaurant setting up small functions.
"TAFE was an excellent choice for me and provided a great pathway to finding a rewarding job," she said.
Anyone seeking information about enrolling in tourism and hospitality courses at Gold Coast Institute of TAFE should contact the customer service team (07) 5581 8425 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au.
9 May 2008
Quality teachers with real-world experience at Gold Coast TAFE
Gold Coast TAFE remedial massage teacher, Brendan Wong enjoys the challenges of teaching and keeping the Gold Coast Blaze team in peak physical condition.
Brendan said when the Blaze season commences he takes a couple of students along to the training sessions to gain valuable hands-on experience.
We perform remedial massage day to day post training sessions for maintenance and pre/post event sports massage at home games for the players plus I was travelling with the team last season interstate.
"I actually became interested in massage when my wife had neck problems and required on-going treatment.
"I ended up completing a Diploma of Health Science with a major in Massage Therapy and have now been massaging for over ten years," he said
According to Brendan being a successful massage therapist is all about commitment to being the best you can be.
"I am an advocate for always putting the needs of your client first in everything that you do and never stop learning.
"I have personally found massage to be the most rewarding career path and recommend it as a career.
"I relish the opportunity to assist every student who comes to Gold Coast TAFE to assist them to achieve their goals of becoming an outstanding massage therapist," he said.
Institute Director, Deb Daly said when students enrol at Gold Coast TAFE they learn from teacher's such as Brendan who have real-world experience.
"Our programs have been designed in close consultation with business and industry to ensure graduates have up-to-date and industry-relevant skills and knowledge.
"Diploma students learn the knowledge and skills to assess and treat a variety of soft-tissue injuries using a variety of techniques.
"It is common to see graduates working with athletes, in health clubs, spas, salons, working on cruise ships or at resorts, employed with medical doctors, chiropractors, psychotherapists, and personal trainers," she said.
Gold Coast TAFE offer a range of full and part-time massage programs such as Certificate IV in Massage, Diploma of Remedial Massage and a range of short courses which can enhance career prospects.
Anyone seeking more information or wishing to enrol for semester two should contact the customer service team at Gold Coast Institute of TAFE on (07) 5581 8425 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au.
8 May 2008
Historic 2020 summit a poignant highlight
Gold Coast TAFE Institute Director Deb Daly reported many highlights being selected as a participant at the historic 2020 summit held in Canberra last week.Ms Daly was chosen to participate in the productivity stream focusing on education, skills, training, science and innovation.
Ms Daly said there was a real challenge bringing together 1000 bright and eager Australians with disparate views across the 10 areas of focus under the microscope.
"There were many highlights but the most poignant one for me was when Hugh Jackman was interviewing participants in the last plenary session on Saturday.
"Hugh encouraged an indigenous elder to sing a verse of his favourite song which happened to be Australian songwriter, Paul Kelly's 'from little things big things grow'.
"The elder tentatively sang the first verse and most of the crowd joined him enthusiastically in the chorus.
"For me personally this became the official anthem for the 2020 Summit," she said.
Ms Daly said she was very pleased to know that one of the key issues was the acknowledgement that as a nation we need to focus on developing our human capital.
"The issues of skills development and education were raised in eight of the 10 streams in one form or another.
"Despite some rigorous debate and significant time pressures, I was very pleased with the outcomes of the productivity stream.
"And judging by the response from the 1000 delegates during the final presentation on the Sunday afternoon, it appears than many of those ideas have broader support," she said.
"The opportunity to contribute to shaping the future of our nation was very inspirational and is certainly a highlight of my life experiences," commented Ms Daly.
24 April 2008
Property investors can make educated and informed choices thanks to Gold Coast TAFE
Property Investors can now gain valuable exposure to practical aspects of the property market by participating in The Property Investment Program at Gold Coast Institute of TAFE.
The Property Investment Program is a 20 week self-interest program designed to assist investors to make educated and informed choices when investing in the property market.
Creator of the Property Investment Program, Peter Koulizo, is also nationally recognised for his 'Top 10 suburbs to invest in'.
Suzie Crawford, a successful property investor who co-ordinates the program at Gold Coast TAFE said that the Property Investment Program's gave students an opportunity to get together with like-minded investors.
"They can share their stories, learn from each other and develop an ongoing property investment support group.
"Industry experts speak to the students themselves throughout the program, so students gain real experience and real knowledge from the people who are practising it," Ms Crawford said.
The Property Investment Program commences at the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE on 2 and 3 April 2008.
Anyone seeking more information about participating in the Property Investment Program should contact the customer service team at Gold Coast Institute of TAFE on (07) 5581 8425 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au.
19 March 2008
Gold Coast TAFE water-wise plumbing training centre set to be launched
A joint initiative between industry and the Gold Coast TAFE will see a new plumbing training centre set to be launched tomorrow.
The new training centre was built by Gold Coast TAFE teachers and students and is equipped with the very latest in plumbing technology.
Acting Institute Director Peter Mitchell welcomes the launch of the training centre which is located in the Faculty of Industrial Technology at the Ashmore Campus.
"It is a priority for us at Gold Coast TAFE to ensure we are offering our students the very latest technology in plumbing training.
"We also want to be known as a training facility for qualified plumbers to return to update their skills in line with government regulations," Mr Mitchell said.
Gold Coast TAFE plumbing teacher Stephen Brown said this initiative was made possible with the assistance of three significant plumbing companies who kindly donated the equipment.
"My pre-vocational plumbing students worked on this project last year and received valuable hands on experience whilst working on this project.
"Students would never normally get to install this type of latest technology plumbing equipment in their training due to the sheer expense.
"All the equipment in the training centre is compliant with the regulations of meeting the new water saving measures aimed at preserving the water drinking water supplies," he said.
According to Mr Brown plumbers are also required to gain 20 points annually towards updating their skills to keep their licence current.
"Qualified plumbers can undertake training at our new facility to assist with meeting these regulations set by the Plumbers Licensing Board," he said.
The Plumbing training centre will be officially launched at 8am on Wednesday, 19 March at the Faculty of Industrial Technology, Gold Coast TAFE Ashmore Campus, Cnr Heeb Street and Benowa Road, Ashmore.
18 March 2008
Never too old to study online at Gold Coast TAFE
Henri Begon, 66, who recently completed an online TAFE training course, is a shining example that it is never too old to learn.
Mr Begon, executive chef at Cedar Creek Winery, said he studied Gold Coast TAFE's food safety and hygiene course online rather than attend classes because it was more flexible.
"The online training was far more convenient with my work commitments and I really found the course user-friendly and interesting," he said.
"Of course my vast work experience and industry knowledge made studying easy.
"Thanks goes to my wife who helped me update my computer skills and my tutor who was extremely supportive."
Institute director Deb Daly said under the Food Act 2006, every licensable food business in Queensland was required to employ a food safety supervisor by 22 February this year.
"The food safety supervisor program requires completing two units from a nationally accredited Hospitality Training Package," Ms Daly said.
"The program is delivered online and participants will be allocated an online facilitator to assist with study and assessment.
"Once enrolled, participants have eight weeks to complete the program.
"The online environment allows people to work at their own pace and, if they wish, they can complete the course in a shorter time-frame.
"On completion of the compulsory requirements, participants will be a qualified food safety supervisor and awarded a Statement of Attainment."
Ms Daly said participants would learn how to keep correct and complete records, supervise food handling staff and how to monitor implementing company food safety programs.
"The new requirements will further enhance the food hygiene and safety standards within the food industry," she said.
For more information, phone 5581 8618 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au
5 February 2008
Travel the world at Gold Coast TAFE without a passport!
Gold Coast Institute of TAFE volunteer tutor, Ann Eichsteadt learns as much from 
adults learning English as a second language as they learn from her.
Ann Eichsteadt from Coombabah decided to give her time back to a worthwhile cause after she had surgery which restricted her normal active lifestyle.
"I didn't want to just sit at home and do nothing and I saw the advertisement for the Gold Coast TAFE volunteer program and enrolled to undertake the Course in Volunteer Tutoring," Ms Eichsteadt said.
"My work is very rewarding and keeps my mind active as I encourage conversation with the students by reading the daily newspaper and talking about places of interest".
"I can travel the world without using a passport by sitting and talking to students from all around the world" she said.
Institute Director, Deb Daly said the institute offers a free course in volunteer tutoring which provides the opportunity for volunteers to acquire skills, knowledge and attitudes required for successful tutoring of adults in the area of English as a second language (ESL).
"We have some very remarkable volunteers in the ESL program like Ann Eichsteadt who has donated her time twice a week since 1995," Ms Daly said.
The next course in Volunteer Tutoring for English as a Second Language commences at Gold Coast TAFE on 14 February at the Southport Campus.
For further information please call the Customer Service Centre on (07) 5581 8300 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au.
1 February 2008
TAFE graduate climbs corporate ladder
When Katie Todd completed her online Certificate IV qualification at Gold Coast TAFE in 2007, little did she know promotion was just around the corner.
Ms Todd gained her promotion from Community Manager to Team Leader after obtaining a Certificate IV in Body Corporate Management at Gold Coast TAFE.
"I really enjoyed the flexibility of the on-line delivery and the course provided an opportunity to meet like-minded professionals," Ms Todd said.
"I found the course material designed by Gold Coast body corporate professionals to be user friendly and easy to follow."
"This was backed up by mentoring and expert guidance from our TAFE teachers, who have had many years of experience in the Body Corporate industry."
Ms Todd said the skills and knowledge she gained were invaluable - managing body corporate meetings, contract development, implementation of strata management agreements, managing business, trust accounting, financial reporting and managing disputes to name just a few.
Gold Coast TAFE Institute Director Deb Daly said the Community Titles Institute of Queensland expects from this year, it will become mandatory to hold a Certificate IV as a minimum qualification to operate in the industry.
"Our award-winning Opportunity, Solution and Results (OSR) Program provides a practical focus, centred on developing business solutions and resources that can be implemented into the workplace," Ms Daly said.
"And our OSR Body Corporate Management program is unique as it is the only course in the market that covers national regulations for strata management."
"Our course has been recently updated and rewritten by industry professionals to ensure compliance with national competencies."
"For this reason we have people enrolled in the course from around Australia."
Anyone seeking more information about becoming an OSR Graduate should contact the customer service team at Gold Coast Institute of TAFE on (07) 5581 8618 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au.
25 January 2008
Boost business skills at Gold Coast TAFE
Business executives can learn how to improve their bottom line at the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE Business Booster' workshop series.
Institute Director Deb Daly said the 'Business Booster Series' was created because many business leaders and their employees are seeking a fast and practical way to update best-practice skill sets.
'The workshop series is competitively priced and designed to develop and increase skills and knowledge in a 'hands on', condensed learning format.'
'Targeted towards business owners, managers, operational staff and anyone wishing to further their business career, our workshops provide the opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals', Ms Daly said.
According to Ms Daly there is no sitting around in the Business Booster Series workshops as the participant is involved from the onset to ensure they walk away with the skills for immediate practical implementation.
'Workshops offered include skills for effective business management and skills for the developing leader and manager.'
"The first workshop of the series entitled 'Becoming a Dynamic Leader' will teach participants how to become strategic, insightful leaders and transform the way teams work", Ms Daly said.
The workshops are delivered in the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE professional training rooms at the Southport Campus in Scarborough Street.
Gold Coast TAFE is offering an early bird rate for participants who book two weeks prior to the workshop date or for group bookings made for three or more people.
For full details on the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE, OSR Business Solutions workshops, please contact the Customer Service Team on (07) 55 818 618 or visit the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE Careers Expo tomorrow from 5-7pm, Southport Campus, Scarborough Street.
16 January 2008
Fate brings TAFE student and teacher together
Quality training and personal attributes bring Gold Coast Institute of TAFE real estate student a job offer.
Richard Gumbleton said he is delighted to join the team of Emma Hoger-Jefferies of Net Property Group.
"I first met Emma when I moved to the Gold Coast in 1998 and she assisted in finding a house for my family to live in.
"We then crossed paths again when I was a Sales Manager at a car dealership and she was looking for a car.
"On my first day at TAFE I bumped into Emma and we both asked each other what we were doing here, so you can imagine how delighted I was to find out that Emma was going to be my real estate teacher.
"Emma was very inspirational teacher at TAFE and I am now very fortunate to be learning every single day.
Emma Hoger-Jefferies said she really enjoyed teaching at Gold Coast TAFE and sharing her 17 years' of industry experience and knowledge with her students.
"It is important to ensure that the quality and standards for the Real Estate Industry are met by all new graduates.
"It was a pleasure to welcome Richard to my sales team as he has the same values which fit with our company mission statement to bring community and properties together.
"His personal attributes will be a valuable asset when it comes to our events and charitable fundraising activities we host throughout the year where all monies raised go to much needed organisations and causes.
For more information on a real estate career, visit Gold Coast TAFE at the Career Expo this Thursday 17 January from 5-7pm at the Southport campus on the Ground Floor, phone 55 818 300 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au
14 January 2008
Grow your career and obtain a qualification
Gold Coast residents who enjoy working in Australia's great outdoors can earn a living and improve their employment prospects by gaining a qualification in horticulture.
Institute Director, Deb Daly, said Gold Coast TAFE offers prospective students the tools and expert instruction from the 2007 National Horticulture Teacher of the Year, Ben Balaba.
"We are very proud of Ben and our horticulture team who are dedicated to achieving excellence in teaching and committed to skilling the next generation of horticulture industry employees," Ms Daly said.
"A qualification in horticulture can lead to a rewarding and exciting career in an important primary industry.
"Our progams include basic to advanced horticulture skills including how to install landscape structures and irrigation systems, choose water wise plants and test soil, and specialist pruning and planting techniques".
"Other topics covered are landscape team supervision, plant identification, how to run a business, estimating and costing and surveying and weed control focussing on environmental practices including saving water."
The horticulture programs run from six to 12 months full-time so students develop the skills and competencies necessary for long-term employment as a landscape assistant or gardener.
They are designed to help students maximise their creative possibilities with landscape through construction, plant identification and planning.
For more information on a career in horticulture, visit the Gold Coast TAFE Careers Expo on Thursday 17 January from 5-7pm, Ground Floor, Southport Campus, phone our Customer Service Team on 55 818 300 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au
10 January 2008
Study proves to be a rewarding path to empowerment
Angela Miller was one of a hundred students to graduate in the Adult 
Tertiary Preparation (ATP) course last year at Gold Coast Institute of TAFE.
Angela was the deserving recipient of a Student of the Year Excellence Award.
Talking to Angela, it is very easy to see why she was rewarded for her dedication to her studies.
Angela said she left school in Year 10 as she was living in a small country town and hardly anyone continued their studies.
"I left school and worked in a kitchen for many years and decided that I wanted to do more with my life," she said.
"I spent five years volunteering at the Priestdale Buddhist temple as a tour guide and an office worker.
"This time allowed me to re-evaluate my life and look at what I really wanted to do in the future.
"With higher ambitions in mind, I decided to enroll at Gold Coast TAFE in an ATP course as I knew it would be good preparation for university.
"I knew completing the course would take a lot of commitment as I have an energetic nine-year-old daughter who demands my energy.
"I had to restructure my whole life so that there would be a balance between study and important weekend time with my family."
Angela said six months into her course she discovered her "compassionate side" and began assisting fellow students in their studies.
"I have enrolled into Griffith University doing a double degree in Primary school teaching and human services," she said.
"I now realize it's not just about the piece of paper at the end of the course, it's about the journey and challenges along the way."
Institute Director, Deb Daly, said the core elements of the ATP course increased student proficiency in areas such as research skills, report writing, time management and study techniques - all important skills required to gain tertiary qualifications.
"Adult Tertiary Preparation was specifically developed to give people the skills to continue with further study - either at university or at TAFE," Ms Daly said.
"There are so many different options available today for people to develop their skills and go on to many other rewarding study options.
"Students are also able to select subjects that may be a pre-requisite for the university degrees or TAFE diploma they seek.
"At Gold Coast TAFE we encourage and support all our students to work towards the outcome they desire for today and the future."
Gold Coast residents who are 25 years and over and do not have formal qualifications may be eligible to apply for Work Skills vouchers at Gold Coast TAFE to cover the cost of tuition fees to a maximum of $3000.
For more information about Adult Tertiary Preparation and other study options, prospective students can visit the Gold Coast TAFE Careers Expo on Thursday 17 January from 5-7pm Southport campus Ground Floor, phone 55 818 300 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au
10 January 2008
Expand your mind at Gold Coast TAFE Careers Expo
Gold Coast residents can discover more career possibilities at the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE annual Careers Expo next week.
Gold Coast TAFE Institute Director Deb Daly is urging Gold Coast residents who may be evaluating their career options to attend the TAFE Careers Expo on Thursday 17 January from 5-7pm at the Institute's Southport campus.
"Gold Coast TAFE can offer students real long term career advantages and a pathway to a host of work and learning experiences to help secure their dream job," Ms Daly said.
"Students can enrol now directly into all certificate programs and most diploma programs and enjoy the benefits of practical, value for money, real-world training.
"An extensive range of programs will be showcased at the expo and representatives from all faculties will be there on the night to offer assistance to those who are still unsure about their study options for 2008."
Gold Coast TAFE offers flexible learning options in many courses including full-time, part-time, online delivery and on-the-job training through apprenticeships or traineeships.
Positions are still available in a number of study areas including business, information technology, naturopathy and massage, tourism and hospitality, horticulture, engineering, project management, live theatre production and screen, multimedia, health and adult tertiary preparation.
Ms Daly says that more employers are seeking industry experience from their prospective employees, and students with vocational training will increase their jobs skills and employability.
"Students able to incorporate vocational training into their studies sooner rather than later, could find the transition to employment an easier process," she said.
"Graduates of Gold Coast TAFE will find themselves well-grounded in technical understanding and ready to take on the higher level theory components of their chosen field."
For more information, visit Gold Coast TAFE at the Career Expo on Thursday 17 January from 5-7pm at the Southport campus on the Ground Floor, phone 55 818 300 or visit www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au
9 January 2008
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