Employers can now access Federal funding to support any new or existing employees undertaking a Certificate III and IV in Aquaculture.
This means employers can enjoy a 10% wage subsidy for trainees during the first two years, up to $6,000 per year, and a 5% subsidy for the third year, up to $3,000. Employees pursuing these qualifications will also receive the Australian Apprenticeship Support Payment, with full-time trainees getting $1,250 every six months for up to 24 months, and part-time trainees receiving $625.
If you would like to discuss in person how a Certificate III or IV in Aquaculture could benefit your workplace, our Training Officer, Chadd Mumme, frequently visits your work sites to catch up with trainees and managers for regular site visits. With over 170 trainees across Tasmania, Chadd is often on the road and would be happy to discuss training opportunities and how SMT can facilitate a flexible schedule around quieter times. If you have any questions or to see if your staff are eligible, please contact Seafood and Maritime Training on 62860400 or your Apprenticeship Network Provider.
Farewell Genia
It was with mixed emotions that SMT announced the retirement of Genia Caulfield, a valued member of our team.
Genia has spent almost 30 years helping the Seafood and Maritime Community with tickets and training. Genia has now decided to embark on a new journey and enjoy the next chapter of her life.
Genia has been an integral part of the Seafood and Maritime Training team for the past 6 years contributing her skills, knowledge, and unwavering dedication to the Coxswain Courses. Her presence will be greatly missed and somehow, we will have to manage our office footy tipping without her.
SMT would like to thank Genia for all her hard work, professionalism, and enthusiasm that she has brought to the team. We wish her nothing but the best as she enjoys a well-deserved retirement filled with relaxation, adventure, and more time with loved ones.
Meet our new trainer
James Melbourne-Thomas is the Trainer for the Aquaculture Program at the Huon Valley Trade Training Centre. He has over 15 years’ experience working in the seafood and maritime industry, initially as a researcher followed by more than a decade working in salmon aquaculture as a commercial diver, heavy works skipper (Master 5) and wildlife officer. His professional background also includes experience working in ecotourism and marine consulting. He has a degree in Immunology (with Honours) from the University of Leicester (UK) and a Master of Teaching from the University of Tasmania. James grew up in Wales in the United Kingdom where he developed his interest for mentoring learners (particularly through Surf Life Saving) and working in and around the ocean.
James will be delivering SFI10119 – Certificate I in Seafood Industry and SFI20119 – Certificate II in Aquaculture on behalf of SMT and the Huon Valley High school at the centre.
The Huon Valley Trade training centre was established in 2012 has an aquaculture teaching facility which is growing salmon at different stages of their life cycle, aquarium growing ornamental fish and an aquaponics system that can grow plants using the waste from the fish.
The training programs offered at the centre offer great careers pathways for students that want to work in the Seafood Industry and is supported by employers and the community.
