Clarence Valley’s natural environments, landscape features, cultural assets, and other community spaces are benefiting from TAFE NSW supplying a new crop of skilled workers to the gardening and landscaping industry, where jobs are predicted to grow by 6.2% in the decade to 2033.

Growing industry demand for skilled workers is being met, in part, by TAFE NSW Trenayr’s Certificate III in Horticulture and Certificate III in Parks and Gardens courses.

Three horticulture graduates and two parks and gardens apprentices from TAFE NSW Trenayr are currently employed full time with Clarence Valley Council.

Graduate and Clarence Valley local Kate Dowsett completed a Certificate III in Horticulture in 2023. She is now employed as Council’s Open Spaces Supervisor. As a mature age student, Kate was thrilled to make a career change and fulfill a dream to work in the horticulture industry.

“I’ve always had an interest in horticulture. Studying at TAFE NSW helped me become qualified for a successful career doing what I love. The horticulture industry is constantly evolving. TAFE NSW offers a range of courses that enable you to gain practical skills and experience to keep up with industry trends,” Ms Dowsett said.

“In my role, I’m required to supervise fellow TAFE NSW Trenayr student, Casey Lee, as she completes a Certificate III Parks and Gardens Apprenticeship with Council. In a way, it feels like I’m giving back to TAFE NSW in supervising Casey’s apprenticeship, which I enjoy,” she said.

Clarence Valley Council General Manger Laura Black said TAFE NSW graduates like Kate are highly sought after in the local government sector, as they arrive at councils equipped with hands-on skills and are ready to hit the ground running.

“Clarence Valley Council continues to employ TAFE NSW graduates and apprentices as they have job-ready skills to start a career in the growing horticultural and landscaping field, due to the extensive training they receive,” Ms Black said.

“Their employment is a result of the courses they have undertaken with TAFE NSW Trenayr.”

The TAFE NSW Certificate III in Horticulture arms students with skills to see their career bloom as a horticulturist, landscaper or gardener. The Certificate III in Parks and Gardens supports students to fulfil a career maintaining outdoor community spaces that are enjoyed by many.