Official opening of C Y O'Connor TAFE college in Central Wheatbelt

30/3/95

Vocational education and training in the Central Wheatbelt will enter a new era on Friday (March 31) when the C Y O'Connor College of TAFE is officially opened by Employment and Training Minister Norman Moore.

The Minister will officiate at ceremonies in Northam (11 am) and Merredin (3.15 pm) where campuses have been expanded and brought under the umbrella of the C Y O'Connor College of TAFE.

As a result of the expansion, the Northam TAFE Campus has received a $2 million administrative centre and $686,000 has been invested in the Merredin campus.

Additional college facilities are located in Kellerberrin, Narrogin and Moora.

Mr Moore said the college was the result of a concerted effort by both the Government and local communities to improve education and training opportunities in the Wheatbelt Region.

"Wheatbelt communities have been very supportive of the Government's work in establishing the college and I look forward to continuing community and municipal input," he said.

"The college's courses will be tailored to the needs of local communities and delivered using a combination of sophisticated technology and face-to-face teaching."

Named after engineering pioneer C Y O'Connor, the college has operated since July last year under the direction of managing director Laurie Bonney.

"The college will be part of a Statewide network of autonomous colleges working in a diverse, competitive and less regulated training market," Mr Moore said.

"The establishment of the C Y O'Connor College is a recognition of the potential growth that the Wheatbelt Region possesses.  I believe the college will play a significant role in supporting regional development.

"I congratulate everyone who has been prepared to put the effort in and worked hard to establish the college."

Media contact: Anabel Gomez 321 1444