Construction beginning at Earthworks Academy

Work has begun on the construction of the Earthworks Academy at Quercus Park, Carrick, a new training facility that will deliver critical civil construction skills to hundreds of Tasmanians each year.

The Civil Contractors Federation Tasmania has welcomed the start of the $4.3 million project, with CCFTas CEO Andrew Winch saying a recent skills analysis of the civil sector predicted nearly 700 plant and machinery operators, along with other critical sector workers, will be needed annually in the state.

“That is why the Earthworks Academy cannot come soon enough,” Mr Winch said.

“These skilled workers will help Tasmania build the infrastructure our community needs.”

Mr Winch said the choice of location was key to the Academy’s long-term success, with industry analysis highlighting the importance of a central site that meets the needs of operators across the state.

“Current statistics show that around half of the civil workforce is based in the North and North West of Tasmania,” Mr Winch said.

“The Earthworks Academy will operate as an open work site, allowing plant and machinery operators to undertake real world training in a safe and controlled environment that reflects genuine industry conditions.

“It will enable faster and more efficient training delivery across a range of accredited industry units.”

The Academy will also benefit Rural Youth in offering training on-site and access to machinery and skills that will develop and improve facilities at the home of Agfest.