Dairy Traineeships

Dairy traineeships are open to paid employees of dairy farms. The course leads to a nationally accredited Certificate II, III or IV in Agriculture.

Training is on a block release basis. Attendance is encouraged for up to 6 weeks per traineeship but may be less with Recognition of Prior Learning. Enrolments are accepted throughout the year.

The NSW Dairy Farm Training Program was developed in close consultation with industry and Tocal graduates are well regarded for their skills and knowledge. Many of our graduates become effective managers.

Course components

Each year of part time study at Tocal leads to a separate, nationally accredited qualification. The Diploma in Agriculture can also be studied externally.

Training includes use of the College farms, visits to commercial farms in NSW and uses the experience of industry professionals and mentors whenever possible. A self funded tour of NZ is made every three years and is available to all trainees enrolled between trips.

Course details

Depending on training level students may study the following :

Calf Rearing

•  Feed and care for calves 
•  Monitor calf health, detect sickness/disorders and take action

Cattle Health

• Manage dry cow and feeding 
• Manage calving program and assist cows calving 
• Manage a mastitis control program 
• Diagnose common health programs
• Have a knowledge of common diseases

Cattle Breeding

•   Judge and assess cattle performance 
•  Select cows and bulls for mating 
•  Perform artificial insemination and manage on farm storage of semen 
•  Operate herd recording and recordkeeping for breeding

Feeding the Herd

•   Develop a basic knowledge of nutrition 
•   Perform condition scoring on cattle 
•   Supervise feeding program 
•   Use feeding equipment

Manage Pastures

• Evaluate and care for soils
• Establish pastures and control weeds
• Apply irrigation to pasture
• Graze and manage pastures for efficient livestock production

OH&S

• Observe safe work practices
• Assist in workplace hazard identification and risk control
• Take part in workplace OH&S consultation
• Accredited chemical use

Quality Assurance

•   Maintain quality produce 
•   Supervise farm quality assurance programs

General Communications and Supervision

•   Demonstrate problem solving abilities 
•   Plan and manage staff work routines 
•   Demonstrate effective communication

Fees

Trainees pay an administration fee of $436 per traineeship.  Accommodation, including meals and linen, is available at a weekly rate.

Financial assistance

Traineeships attract substantial subsidies for employers and allowances for employees (including for accommodation and travel). Contact an Australian Apprenticeship Centre or the Traineeship Coordinator at Tocal for more information.