Wodonga TAFE
12 months
Develop practical skills in rural machinery operation, agriculture, and conservation through hands-on training. This 12-month Certificate III is ideal for those seeking steady work in farming, equipment operation, or rural support roles.
You must be at least 16 years old to operate machinery units covered in this course. If you plan to conduct civil construction skid steer loader or excavator operations, you must be at least 17 years old. No prior qualifications are required, though a basic understanding of farm work or interest in rural operations is beneficial. You should be physically capable of working outdoors and operating heavy machinery safely.
The course covers essential rural operations competencies across multiple areas. Students learn workplace health and safety processes, biosecurity measures, and chemical transport and storage procedures. Practical machinery training includes tractor operation, front-end loader operations, excavator operations, and side-by-side utility vehicle operation. The curriculum also covers machinery maintenance and general equipment operation. Additional modules focus on fencing construction, pest and weed control through chemical application, environmentally sustainable work practices, remotely piloted aircraft operation, chainsaw maintenance, and tree trimming. Civil construction operations including skid steer loader and excavator operations are also included.
Wodonga TAFE is a registered training organisation (RTO 3097) offering nationally recognised AQF qualifications. The institution provides hands-on, practical learning through experienced instructors and access to real rural equipment and machinery. Students benefit from flexible delivery options at multiple campuses (Wodonga and Shepparton) and comprehensive support services. Government funding is available for eligible students, making quality vocational education accessible.
Upon completion, you'll be equipped for various rural career pathways including farmhand, station hand, livestock handler, agricultural equipment operator, machinery operator, and rural services roles. The practical skills and nationally recognised qualification open doors to employment across agricultural enterprises, rural properties, conservation organisations, and machinery operation roles. The hands-on experience with diverse equipment makes you competitive for positions requiring skilled machinery operators and rural workers.
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