Former AgForce Chief To Oversee QATC Changes

February 14, 2019

Former AgForce CEO Charles Burke has been appointed to oversee the transition of Queensland Agricultural Training Colleges (QATC).

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development Mark Furner said Mr Burke would bring significant industry experience to bear in guiding the transition.

“Charles Burke will spend time in Longreach and Emerald working with local stakeholders as we reinvigorate vocational education, training and skilling in the state’s central west,” Mr Furner said.

Mr Burke spent five years as CEO in a total of 16 years with AgForce, including stints as vice president, treasurer, state councillor and chairing several committees.

He also served as vice president of the National Farmers Federation.

Mr Furner expected the project management office would “hit the ground running” under Mr Burke.

He said the focus would be on good outcomes for communities and diverse and flexible agricultural training opportunities for students.

“Two staff will be based full-time in Longreach and one in Emerald, however all officers will spend significant time in the region working with QATC, local government, other stakeholders and the community,” Mr Furner said.

This would involve identifying economic development opportunities and ensuring the best use of QATC’s facilities.

“Throughout this process, every current student will still be able to complete their qualification or studies at QATC, or through a supported transition to another training provider,” he said.

“Where possible, QATC staff will be redeployed or supported in finding alternative employment or training.”

Mr Furner said $30 million was being invested in QATC’s modernisation.

It follows an independent review of the agricultural training colleges by Professor Peter Coaldrake, who found there was declining demand for traditional agricultural training.

“The Queensland Government recognises we must move to a more modern, cost-effective training model,” Mr Furner said.

“We have started discussions with vocational education and training providers and commercial interests to develop a plan for better use of the QATC’s college facilities.

“These are valuable assets and they need to be used more effectively. We want to make sure that they are available to support a range of training, not limited to agricultural.

“This does not include using the sites as correctional facilities or refugee settlement centres as has been incorrectly reported.

“I would urge those with an interest in the QATC to take the time to actually read the Coaldrake Review and what is proposed.”

More than $30 million will be invested in ther transition, including: