TAFE NSW has delivered a fee-free short course in Forklift Operations to the town of the Quirindi, supporting local businesses that are keen to upskill their staff.

With industries such as Agriculture, Construction, Retail, Manufacturing and Warehousing set to grow over the next 5 years, the demand for forklift drivers is strong with job opportunities expected to grow by 1,400 by 2026.

TAFE NSW Heavy Vehicle teacher, Chris Thompson, said the training was delivered through a mobile training unit, which provides practical equipment within a truck or trailer to students across NSW.

“We have a mobile training unit specifically set up to deliver comprehensive training using industry equipment to regional and remote locations, ensuring everyone has access to the training they need to get the job they want,” Mr Thompsons said.

“Our staff at the TAFE NSW Connected Learning Centre in Quirindi were able to identify the training needs of the community, and we worked closely with them to deliver this course.”

“Participants learnt how to safely start, operate, and maintain a forklift gaining a Statement of Attainment in Forklift Operations upon completion.

“This qualification will benefit them across a range of industries including agriculture, retail and construction, three of the largest employment industries in the New England North West.”

Mitre 10 Branch Manager in Quirindi, Mark Chapple, said he was keen for his staff to upskill and ensure he had more than one qualified forklift driver for the store.

“I contacted TAFE NSW to see if there was an opportunity to upskill our staff and was really pleased when they came back to say the course was going ahead,” Mr Chapple said.

“It’s important for me to know that my staff have the knowledge and skills they need to do their work safely and competently.

“Given that we are one of three local businesses in town that operate forklifts on a daily basis, this was a really important opportunity for our town and great that our staff were able to complete their training locally.”