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From the general manager's desk 2020 and all its challenges has emphasised the importance of the agricultural sector especially in terms of food security. Recognised as an essential service, the industry continues to grow and adapt as do we here at Muresk Institute. Despite the current health crisis we have continued to operate, albeit differently. Farm operations have continued business-as-usual, and our cutting edge research and development projects are still underway with social distancing protocols and hygiene practices strictly observed. The Stud Merino Breeders’ Sire Evaluation program has entered its fifth year. We have also partnered with Murdoch University to commence livestock sensor trials which allow a real-time monitoring system to predict/model intake and behaviours on different feeds. Furthermore, we continue our feed conversion trials in partnership with the Dohne Breeders’ Association along with a range of cropping and carbon related trials. Additionally, we are proud to be the trial site for a four year desalination plant project. These projects provide our students with contemporary learnings and practices as well as exposure to valuable industry networks. Since the commencement of Term 2, our training providers have adapted their training delivery to enable students to continue their studies. In line with the COVID-19 WA roadmap and further easing of restrictions, training providers are working on the return to normal arrangements where possible in accordance with the health guidelines. The agility of our training providers has ensured student numbers have continued to be strong in all full time programs including Curtin University’s Associate Degree in Agribusiness, the Certificate III in Animal Studies delivered by Central Regional TAFE and the Diploma of Agriculture delivered by South Regional TAFE. Our team has also continued to do our bit to champion careers in agriculture through our involvement in the PRIMED project. A collaborative initiative across three government agencies with the aim of shifting the perception of the primary industries sector and increasing the number of young people pursuing employment in this area. On the farm there is currently a hive of activity as we, along with many other Wheatbelt farmers are busy seeding. It’s been an action-packed year to date! To keep up with news as it happens I invite you to like our Facebook page and visit our website.
Prue Jenkins |
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Applications are still open! This Bootcamp is a unique opportunity for Year 12 students, school leavers and young people to kick start a career in the tech-based agricultural machinery industry. Participants will learn from industry experts, get a graded skills passport and have the opportunity to pitch their skills to employers – there's even apprenticeships and traineeships up for grabs! Due to COVID-19 restrictions we have had to postpone the event however now that restrictions are easing we will reschedule it in soon. |
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Meet our Muresk Institute Advisory Committee Our Advisory Committee members are selected for their experience and expertise in education, training, industry or community affairs, and for their ability to make a positive contribution to the strategic direction of Muresk Institute. Established in 2013, the committee meets four times a year and provides advice and assistance to strengthen the collaboration between the Muresk Institute, industry and the community. Keep an eye on our website as we will be featuring more information on our members soon.
Pictured above (left to right): Brad Jones, Duncan Young, John Seabrook, Kay Gerard, Natarsha Woods, Ian Hanna and Prue Jenkins |
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Desalination trial at full bore We are in our first year of operation as a trial site for a four year desalination plant project in partnership with Murdoch University, Water Corporation, Wheatbelt Development Commission and Moerk Water. Launched in June 2019, this state-of-the-art project aims to enable farmers to treat groundwater and produce fit for purpose water. Additional funding is being provided for an additional bore and desalination plant. |
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Associate Degree in Agribusiness in its second year Muresk welcomed new and returning students into the Associate Degree in Agribusiness this year. See how students are enjoying the course and structuring study around their work and farm commitments during the COVID-19 pandemic in this Farm Weekly article. |
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Short courses coming soon As restrictions are eased we will begin to offer short courses. You can still view upcoming short courses and register your interest via the course page. A Muresk Institute staff member will notify you of the new course date/s once they become available. |
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Conference postponed As part of the government’s response to limit the impact of COVID-19 in the community our FarmSmart Conference has been postponed. As restrictions are eased we will announce a new date. Keep an eye on our facebook page and website for event information and early bird ticket |
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Have your say! The Food Fibre and Timber Industries Training Council is actively discussing issues about the impact of COVID-19 on businesses, producers, manufacturers within the primary industries with the Department of Training and Workforce Development and the State Training Board. It is acknowledged that the road to recovery may not be a return to ‘business as usual’. New approaches may be required temporarily and better ways of doing business adopted during recovery. Regardless, there needs to be a continued focus in ensuring that training efforts are appropriately targeted in the areas of most importance to industry. As an important industry stakeholder, they are interested in hearing from you on workforce and training issues. Specifically, they are interested to know:
If you would like to contribute to this conversation, please email Paul Etheredge at Paul.Etheredge@fftitc.com.au or phone him on 0424 205 767. |
