GOTAFE Diplomas boosting Victorian wine industry
GOTAFE is the only TAFE in Victoria that offers diplomas in Viticulture (AHC51519) and Wine Technology (10614NAT), both of which are delivered part time and mostly online, making them an ideal fit for those living further afield or wanting to learn while working.
Australia is home to some of the best wine-growing regions and is the fifth largest wine exporter in the world - but have you ever stopped to think about how your wine goes from grape to glass?
The Victorian wine industry is made up of 22 wine regions, 700 wineries, and 400 cellar doors. In 2021 the industry employed around 1,200 people, a 20 percent increase from the previous year. Interest in and demand for qualified viticulturists and winemakers is at an all-time high.
GOTAFE is the only TAFE in Victoria that offers diplomas in Viticulture (AHC51519) and Wine Technology (10614NAT), both of which are delivered part-time and mostly online, making them an ideal fit for those living further afield or wanting to learn while working.
Paula Pipan, Wine Courses Coordinator at GOTAFE says the flexible learning environment enables students to develop their theoretical knowledge and participate in hands-on practical workshops using modern industry equipment.
"Students can study online and then come in for residential schools where we have all of them in the same room working together, working on experiments, working on wine tastings, and really putting into practice some of the theory that they’ve learnt."
Wendy Killeen, Managing Director & Brand Ambassador at Stanton and Killeen Wines in Rutherglen, appreciates the importance of understanding the industry and the knowledge behind making great wine.
“Classroom study, along with onsite training is an excellent way to learn,” she said.
“There is a shortage of qualified and committed people in the employment pool in the wine industry across North East Victoria,” Ms Killeen said.
GOTAFE student Glen Pollard decided to enrol in the Diploma of Wine Technology (11034NAT) after he purchased a hobby vineyard. He wanted to expand his knowledge and learn to properly look after his vineyard.
“Although the course is mostly theory, I’m putting all the theory into practice,” he said.
“All the trainers are in the industry, so they have real-world life experience. You get real experts.”
Glen works full time, devoting his spare time to his winemaking hobby. “Because of the flexibility of the course, I’m able to work around everything else I’ve got to make my study fit,” he said.
Students undertaking the Diploma of Wine Technology (11034NAT) learn essential competencies in winemaking including understanding the relationship between vineyard operation and overall wine quality, testing processes for wine quality, and how to operate and maintain wine-making equipment. Students also learn to manage operations in a commercial winery, supervise staff, implement OH&S guidelines and ensure the sustainability of the enterprise.
GOTAFE’s wine courses enable students to delve into the industry and will equip them with the necessary tools for wine production. The next intake for the Diploma of Wine Technology (11034NAT) commences on September 1.
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