Hands on Trades Career Expo attracts students from across Victoria to Winton

By Simon Ruppert

Aug 14, 2023

There was something to inspire students from all walks of life at the Hands-On Trades Career Expo held at Winton Motor Raceway on Thursday, August 10.

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The event was organised by NE Tracks LLEN and Chief Executive Officer Tim Oliver said it attracted 1400 students, guests, visitors and exhibitors.

Mr Oliver had popped into local exhibitor Delatite Steel prior to the event and said he was pleased with the amount of local businesses and organisations that were keen to assist.

“It’s important for local businesses like Delatite Steel to show students some of the activities performed in their workplace as they think about the (various) career pathways available to them,” Mr Oliver said.

Interactive: Students had fun operating the CFA fire hose. Photo by Simon Ruppert

“We all drive past local businesses with little understanding of exactly what they do, and the work involved.

“By participating in the Expo, local students, who will become the future workforce get to meet local employers and are better prepared for placements and future career choices.”

Delatite Steel General Manager Warwick Doyle said the business had one first year apprentice and two school based apprentices from FCJ College working as part of its team.

“We are proud to provide employment and training opportunities to young people interested in a career with us and being at the Expo is another way we can help students to see some of what’s on offer in our region.

Inspirational: Leading Senior Constable Lisa Atkinson shows a student the features of a modern police car. Photo by Simon Ruppert

“Quite simply, it’s an investment in our future.”

The expo featured a variety of fun activities and exhibitions with youngsters having an opportunity to use ropes to climb trees, with North East Tree Services, and view a robotic dog created by Boston Dynamics to name just a couple.

Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE had several exhibits, including one of the most popular which featured two brand new Tesla cars it is using to train the mechanics of tomorrow.

GOTAFE’s Coordinator Automotive Mark Ward said the reason behind the surge in demand for electric-vehicle training and upskilling is the market for vehicles is finally switching gears.

“There has been an increase in demand for electric vehicles,” Mr Ward said.

“Everyone is looking at green energy and making a move away from fossil fuels.

“We are one of the first TAFEs in Victoria to have Tesla vehicles.

Supported: Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn with Councillors Justin King and Gail O'Brien. Photo by Simon Ruppert

“The biggest benefit of having (these) is the support it will provide to our learners.

“We are (also) planning to have some courses in the market to help local workshops keep up with changes in technology. It is an exciting time for the automotive industry.”

On top of the exhibits from Delatite Steel and GOTAFE students could also see demonstrations of ADF and police vehicles.

There was also interactive exhibits from SES, FFMVic, CFA, Municipal Courts Victoria, several Universities, and a range of organisations from across North East Victoria.

The Ensign’s Simon Ruppert was there to take these photos. To see more photos access this article online.