Port operation training

The first shipment of woodchips from Melville Island leave Port Melville bound for Japan. Pic Glenn Campbell

A DOZEN Tiwi Islanders are undergoing a port operations training program with the aim of increasing the local labour force skill sets.

NT Port and Marine, an AusGroup company, is currently delivering training for two groups of trainees on Melville Island.

The Port Operations Support Officer Training program, which is delivered in partnership with the Tiwi Islands Training Education Board.

It will see 12 Tiwis trained in a variety of skills which include rigging and dogging, materials handling operations and forklift operation, qualifying them for not just local but also future employment opportunities that may arise.

NT Port and Marine Port Manager Lindsay Whiting is facilitating the program.

He is working with mentors who are providing the students with support and guidance.

He said multiskilling is important in communities.

“The program aims to provide multiskilled training to local Tiwi students, with the view to provide employment and a local labour force to Port Melville,” Mr Whiting said.

“NT Port and Marine is providing the students with a learning centre, workplace and heavy equipment for training purposes, while also subsidising accommodation and meals for the duration of the course.”

The course is being funded by the Northern Territory Government.