ECG SETS TRAINING FIRST FOR RURAL STOCK AGENTS

 A shortage of experienced rural stock agents has prompted ECG McMillan to launch a course first in Gippsland offering the first Certificate in Agriculture for Stock Agents. 

It is also offering a new Certificate course in Rural Merchandise in response to a growing need for more trained staff at the trade level to serve and advise farmers on rural products and supplies. 

ECG Coordinator Gerard McLaughlin said the new courses provided an opportunity for people working in these fields to gain an accredited qualification and provide employers with an opportunity to up skill staff. 

“The role of a rural stock agent in particular is a specialised one demanding knowledge and skills in work safety, handling and preparing stock for sale, auctioning livestock as well as chemical use and animal husbandry. 

“Many agents have had to learn their craft working on the job over many years and learning from peers. The challenge for the industry now is that many stock agents are reaching retirement age.” 

Gippsland stock agent Roger Tweddle of Alex Scott & staff welcomed the initiative saying it would benefit the industry by attracting young people and those currently working in stock or real estate to access a new career pathway. 

“Until now there have been limited opportunities for people to learn these skills and to obtain an accredited qualification.“ 

ECG’s Gerard McLaughlin added that the new Rural Merchandise course was also providing an ideal starting point for those interested in a career in rural sales.  

“It covers work safety, and aims to equip participants with knowledge to advise consumers on agronomic products and services, how to buy merchandise and present it as well as to coordinate a retail office. 

“Both courses are targeted at people currently working full-time or part-time in the rural industry who wish to obtain a formal qualification. Training is via workplace delivery and can be undertaken as an apprenticeship. “ 

Mr McLaughlin said there were big benefits for employers who take on apprentices or trainees with government incentives available as well as the benefits of having better skilled workers who know how to work safely and well. 

ECG has moved to increase the range of traineeships it offers to rural industries in agriculture, horticulture and arboriculture to assist employers to advance the skills of staff.” 

“ECG’s certificate programs are structured to provide clear pathways for people to continue to higher certificate or diploma level courses to further advance their careers.” 

ECG operates the McMillan campuses at Warragul and Leongatha. 

 ECG Trainer Barry Perkin and Gippsland stock agent Roger Tweddle discuss the new course offerings. 

 Media inquiries:

Babis Lagos 5622 6000

Gerard McLaughlin  5622 6000

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