News story

Muresk Institute open day showcases opportunities

31 May 2016

Hundreds of people gained an insight into training and careers in agricultural on the weekend as Muresk Institute hosted its annual open day.

Officially opened by Western Australian Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AO, the event showcased new technology and techniques in the agricultural industry.

It gave visitors the chance to discover careers that are available within the agriculture and agribusiness sectors while also learning about the wide range of training programs delivered at Muresk Institute.

The event also put the spotlight on a partnership between the Institute and WA Dohne Breeders Association, which donated 200 Dohne commercial ewes last year. Under a partnership agreement, proceeds from the sale of the first clip of wool shorn from the ewes would be donated to charity.

Muresk Institute General Manager Prue Jenkins said beyondblue and the Royal Flying Doctor Service were presented with a cheque from the sale.

More than $4,570 was raised from five bales of wool sold at auction.

“This partnership is a great example of the cooperation between local breeders and Muresk Institute, which not only supports two worthwhile organisations but it also provides valuable learning opportunities for students,” she said.

“The open day allowed all potential students to gain more information about this partnership while also showcasing other programs and alliances with industry, universities and training providers.”

Visitors to the open day enjoyed a full program of events, with demonstrations focusing on drone technology, quad bikes, low stress livestock handling and working sheep dogs. Renowned butcher Vince Garreffa was also on hand to demonstrate his skills and prepare a barbecue lunch.

Ms Jenkins said a lot of work had been done in recent years towards re-establishing Muresk Institute as a centre of specialisation and improving the perception of agriculture and agribusiness careers.

“This work has been supported with a $20 million investment through the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program,” she said.Dohne partnership donation.JPG

“The open day provided visitors with the chance to see how Muresk Institute, through this investment, is transforming agricultural and agribusiness skills in Western Australia, ensuring industry relevant training is available to help meet the demand for skilled workers.”

More information about the array of training courses offered is available here or telephone 1800 994 031.

Photograph caption:
Ian Hanna and Rhys Parsons (right) from the WA Dohne Breeders Association, Muresk Institute General Manager Prue Jenkins and Adrian Roocke from the Royal Flying Doctor Service following the cheque presentation of proceeds from the sale of the first Dohne wool clip.