Indigenous trainee program sets high standards

The trainees will graduate next January

For Queensland College of Wine Tourism (QCWT) Chief Executive Officer John Neville, the success of a new national wine industry first training program for Indigenous students has far surpassed even his expectations.

The QCWT, which is operated by USQ, has employed 10 Indigenous trainees all of whom are undertaking a Certificate II in Food Processing (Wine).

With support from State and Commonwealth Governments, the trainees from the Granite Belt and South Burnett regions have, since February, worked within the industry while receiving specialist training at the college located just outside the Queensland wine capital of Stanthorpe.

'Through this program we (the QCWT) are able to employ 10 trainees for 12 months and so far it has exceeded my expectations and has been going really well,' Mr Neville said.

'During this time the trainees are working in placements within industry and also getting training at the college that offers a rare combination for a training facility with its own vineyard, winery and cellar door; the Bianca Ridge Bistro plus a conference and function centre.'

As part of the initiative, the trainees will also visit Canberra later this month while also touring some of Australia’s wine country.

'In June we will take a one week tour of one of the wine regions of New South Wales and also visit Australia’s only Indigenous winery at Murrin Bridge near Yass as well as stopping in the nation’s capital.'

While the trainees will only be at the QCWT for 12 months Mr Neville said that the experience may convince them to take on further studies.

'With the connection we have with USQ, I think that this program will encourage them to further education with the University following the completion of this program.'

All 10 trainees, who range in age and life experience are expected to graduate next January.

'As part of their graduation we will launch and taste a white and a red wine that they have created, for which the trainees are currently developing an Indigenous themed label.'

Contact Details:
Josh Ada, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2559 or 0400 025 429