TAFE NSW is training the next generation of bush regenerators and supplying a critical pipeline of workers to ensure the longevity of Australia’s unique ecosystems.

The United Nations has declared this to be the Decade of Ecosystem Restoration with land degradation negatively impacting at least 3.2 billion people worldwide and leading to significant loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services[1].

Topi Topi local and TAFE NSW alumni Scott Meier co-founded Bushland and Rainforest Restoration and Consulting (BARRC) which works in the fields of bushland restoration and conservation and insists that his employees complete TAFE NSW qualifications to meet the needs of his business.

“Regardless of the qualifications or science degrees that my employees hold, I send all of my employees to TAFE NSW to complete the Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management,” Scott said.

“All of my employees place significant social and educational value on their TAFE NSW training, and I have the peace of mind that they are well-trained with the practical skills and experience necessary to do the job correctly."

Scott is passionate about the role of bush regenerators in supporting vegetation and ecosystems in times of disturbance like the recent summer bushfires.

“The role of the bush regenerator can be critical to the success or failure of a planned or wildfire to bring positive ecological results. It is critical that their knowledge is incorporated into Australia's developing fire management systems.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Applied Environmental Management, Agata Mitchell, said that through theory and practical course work in Conservation and Land Management, students learn a wide variety of skills to support their work in the field.

“Students develop a comprehensive range of employability skills including weed and native plant identification, pest species control, map reading and navigation, how to support biodiversity conservation, undertake an ecological site assessment and much more,” Agata said.

“Bush regeneration is key to conserving Australia’s vital biodiversity and TAFE NSW is proud to support the industry and the environment by training the workforce of the future.”

To learn more about the range of courses in Conservation and Land Management available at TAFE NSW visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Kellie Dillon, TAFE NSW R/Media and Communications Business Partner, kellie.dillon7@tafensw.edu.au, 0408 006 866.