The arrangement will see GOTAFE use underutilised parts of Bendigo TAFE’s Echuca campus to run automotive classes in motorbikes, light and heavy vehicles and agriculture.
Bendigo TAFE chief executive Sally Curtain said the collaboration was a natural alignment for both organisations.
“We are both keen to provide as many opportunities as possible for people to study, and living in our smaller regional centres should not be a barrier to that,” she said.
“While we do run a hugely successful automotive programme at Bendigo TAFE, it is not something we run in Echuca.
“We appreciate that not everyone can travel or move to where our courses are, so it is for the broadest community benefit that a range of courses are able to be offered at our campus, even if it’s not by us.”
GOTAFE chief executive Travis Heeney says the arrangement is a win-win for Echuca.
“We have been keen to deliver training options to this community, but there is no sense in doubling up on what Bendigo TAFE already provides,” he said.
“This collaborative approach is a win for everyone.”
Mr Heeney said the automotive courses were popular and provide training in specialty technologies across many vehicle types.
“Our automotive courses are in high demand and this partnership will enable GOTAFE to deliver training options for people close to home,” he said.
Information about the automotive courses and how to enrol can be found on the GOTAFE website gotafe.vic.edu.au
Bendigo TAFE’s Echuca campus provides trades training for around 300 students each year as well as being available for community groups to use the campus facilities by arrangement.
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