STUDENT NUMBERS UP AT MCMILLAN

There’s been a surge in student numbers at Gippsland’s ECG McMillan campus at Warragul with increases in horticulture and agriculture programs as well as a range of new accredited adult education programs being offered.

 ECG Chief Executive Officer Bernadette O’Connor said early enrolment figures indicate a rise of around 15% compared to this time last year which re-affirmed the campuses role as a key regional training provider for the Gippsland region.

“It is particularly pleasing to see demand up for agriculture and horticulture programs as there is a growing need across Australia and indeed Gippsland for more skills in those fields.”

Ms O’Connor said the introduction of new specialist courses tailored to specific industry fields has contributed to the rise in student numbers.

“A new Diploma in Agriculture specialising in goat production is set to begin with a full complement of students. Numbers continue to rise in our new Sustainable Agriculture Diploma and we are also offering two new course firsts this year for stock agents and those working in rural merchandising. General horticulture, production horticulture, and agri-business management courses continue to hold their own, while a new traineeship intake in arboriculture is underway at both Warragul and Leongatha campuses in response to skills shortages in that field.”

 Ms O’Connor said ECG’s management vision was to continue to build the campus into a vibrant learning and research centre that brought students, specialist trainers, business, industry and community together.

 “We have expanded the campus to include a new accredited hair, beauty and makeup program for new entrants to the industry as well programs to help people currently working in the industry to upskill.

 “A number of new Diploma level courses are being offered this year in Salon Management as well as a new Diploma in Disability in response to increased workforce demand for people with management skills. Courses in Children’s Services, Aged Care Work, Education Special Needs, Home and Community Care. Business, Financial Services are all being delivered from McMillan this year.

 “We are also pleased to have new VCAL and VET students studying on campus this year and their presence adds an exciting element to the campus community.”

 Ms O’Connor said students were coming from all parts of Gippsland and some from outer Melbourne suburbs.

 “Courses at McMillan are strongly linked with regional industry and employment demand and students are recognising the benefits of studying programs at a regional campus that provide clear pathways to employment and career advancement, “she said. 

For more information on courses at ECG McMillan phone 5622 6000

L-R: Hort and Ag students learning in the nursery at ECG McMillan – Lyndon Moore, Paul Bridges, Lisa Trowbridge, Jamie Greaves, Anetta Wilson Michael Anderson,  Ricky Swain, Michael Smith, and Collette Gedye

Media inquiries:

Bernadette O’Connor  5622 6000

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