GOTAFE and Victorian Government Partnership Formed To Train Fish Farmers Of The Future
A new, free course has been developed for students interested in pursuing a career in fisheries.
According to research conducted by the Australian Government, since 2002–03 the real gross value of aquaculture production has increased by 12 per cent ($108 million) to over $1 billion (Aquaculture Industry in Australia, 2020).
Trends such as the above are a clear indication of the increase in demand for aquaculture production, hatcheries and native fish conservation programmes. The course being introduced by GOTAFE in partnership with the Victorian Goverment is a step towards delivering up-to-date industry education.
Starting July 16, anyone considering the Certificate III in Agriculture (AHC30116) can participate in a free two-day introductory session on July 8 and 9 to gain an insight into the course study units.
The course will focus on practical skills including fish feeding, breeding and harvesting, and releasing fish into the wild. A range of units will be taught on-site at the new Arcadia Native Fish Hatchery near Shepparton and the Snobs Creek Hatchery near Eildon.
The Victorian Government is encouraging indigenous students to participate in the course and begin the journey to working at Arcadia.
Two graduates of the course will be offered at least 12 months of employment at Arcadia.
Once complete, the Arcadia Hatchery will produce 1.6 million native fish each year and support up to 20 jobs on and off-site.
The Government has committed $3 million to develop a visitor centre at Arcadia in addition to the $7 million to build the fish hatchery.
