23 May 2024
The Heavy Vehicle Mechanical Training Centre at our Thornlie campus is revving into the next era of technology, with the recent donation of a 60T diesel electric underground mining truck from Byrnecut.
"Training is what you make it and if you put the effort in to get the most out of it, you’ll enjoy your time."
Jasmine
Heavy auto student at SM TAFE
The diesel/electric haulage truck joins the inventory of big machines at the campus and marks a milestone in advancing education and training in mining technology.
Meeting the demand for contemporary and cutting-edge machinery in student training is crucial in preparing students for industry today and the workforce of the future, skilling the new generation of automotive workers.
The purpose-built underground mining truck is part of Byrnecut’s significant investment in sustainable mining technology. The vehicle demonstrates a staged approach to electrification of underground haulage trucks, providing a training opportunity for new generations of mining specialists to learn and develop.
This valuable donation will provide students with a deeper understanding of how electric mining vehicles work. Trainees will learn how to repair a range of mining and civil construction equipment that uses next generation electric drive solutions. Thornlie is the largest campus of SM TAFE in student numbers, and heavy auto students learn from lecturers who are industry experts in their field. At the specialised Training Centre, equipment emulates real-world work environments and students develop skills for automotive, engineering and mining fields.
Byrnecut apprentice Jasmine said the practical learning and encouraging lecturers at SM TAFE have really helped her through her apprenticeship.
“A lot of us learn by being hands-on and there’s been a few lecturers who have really encouraged that.
“Training is what you make it and if you put the effort in to get the most out of it, you’ll enjoy your time,” Jasmine said.
Jasmine is completing the AUR31120 Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology at SM TAFE.
SM TAFE works hand-in-hand with Byrnecut Group which is one of the biggest employers of students, with over 180 apprentices and trainees currently in training across automotive and electrical trades.
Thank you to the Byrnecut for the donation, which was welcomed to SM TAFE by Hannah Beazley MLA, Minister Assisting the Minister for Training and Workforce Development. Over the next five years, more than 5,000 apprentices will be exposed to this new technology on the 60T diesel electric underground mining truck.
The donation complements the State Government’s $25 million investment in modern equipment for WA TAFE colleges.
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The 60T diesel electric underground mining truck arrives.
Heavy auto students at the truck presentation.
The underground mining truck will be based at SM TAFE Thornlie campus.