QCWT offers indigenous training program

In 2010, the Queensland College of Wine Tourism, in conjunction with the Australian and Queensland governments offered a new program for Indigenous trainees in the wine industry.

The College secured funding for 10 trainees for the 12 month program. The trainees worked in the industry with host employers whilst undertaking a Certificate II in Food Processing (Wine) with QCWT partner, the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE. This on-the-job training was enhanced by regular training blocks at QCWT and a strong aspirational program.

College CEO, John Neville said the program is believed to be a national first for the wine industry and is possible because of QCWT’s strong partnerships with TAFE and industry. The project has also received strong support, including funding, from the University of Southern Queensland.

With funding through the Australian Government's Indigenous Employment Program and the Queensland Government’s First Start program, the trainees received wage support for the duration of the traineeship. QCWT also appointed a Manager/Mentor, Tim Pellatt,  to support and assist the trainees, who were placed in the Granite Belt and South Burnett Wine Regions.

Following the outstanding success of the 2010 project, which saw graduates placed in wineries both on the Granite Belt and as far afield as Margaret River WA, the QCWT was successful in gaining approval to repeat the project in 2011.

The project is again funded by the Australian Government's Indigenoius Employment Program in partnership with the Queensland Government through the Skilling Queensladers for Work Program.  The project receives continuing support from the University of Southern Queensland.

Following a review of the 2010 project, changes were made to the way it works.  Participants now work and study over 6 months (two blocks of 5 participants) with support being available for a further 3 months if necessary.  The shorter time frame means that the participants are more focussed on getting their qualification and getting into the workforce.

The aspirational component is again a feature with the students working with noted Indigenous artist and speaker Michael Connolly on developing strength and pride in their culture and are also being encouraged to become leaders within their own community.