Wellington Council has been recognised for its innovative management after it saw an opportunity when the Macquarie Valley Weeds Advisory Committee needed to develop a coordinated training package. Occupational Health and Safety and Weeds Coordinator, Bryson Rees, said the package has been adopted by Local Government across New South Wales and has now been recently launched nationally.
“What we ask people to do is to submit their credentials and case studies of their work for assessment by CB Alexander Agricultural College in Tocal that assesses the training needs of applicants,” he said.
Previously each Council carried out training to suit their needs, however, this training was not always recognised by other Councils. The training package has unified training to an accepted level.
Current competencies of Local Government Weeds Officers are now mapped against the national training package for conservation and land management. A central database was set up to identify training deficiencies that are then addressed by CB Alexander Agricultural College.
A skills record book, assessment criteria guidelines and other publications have been developed. Traineeships are also being explored. The benefits include:
- the chance to upgrade skill levels
- recognition of current skills
- access to accredited training
- job descriptions recognising skills
- qualifications recognised across the State by Local Government
- wages reflecting training and skill levels
- recognition of the need for training by Weeds Officers
- a more professional Weeds Officer
- Weeds Officers now becoming mentors in their own ranks
- partnership with C B Alexander Agricultural College
- a training database.
This project had led to the development of better management programs, environmental protection and more successful noxious weed eradication. The long term benefit of this initiative for industry and Government will be better economical and ecological sustainability in the future.
For more information Bryson Rees on (02) 6845 4263.
