Murrindindi Training Institute open for business

The Murrindindi Training Institute (MTI) has commenced the delivery of its first outdoor recreation courses.
MTI's School of Outdoor Leadership will deliver a Certificate IV and Diploma of Outdoor Recreation from its new base at the old hospital in the Victorian country town of Alexandra, with the Continuing Education & Arts Centre of Alexandra Inc. (CEACA) as the Registered Training Organisation.
MTI's course intakes are made up of both standard students and trainees from industry employers linked to the School.
The students will spend ten months learning and practicing the necessary skill and experience to enable them to become 'work ready'. This will give them the necessary components to enter the outdoor education industry.
MTI's students will develop leadership in activities such as bushwalking, canoeing, white water rafting, challenge ropes, cycling, white water kayaking, climbing and abseiling. The close proximity of local natural environments to Alexandra creates an ideal location for delivery of outdoor training.
The two courses delivered in Outdoor Leadership will set the foundation for a further suite of courses to be built upon as the institute grows.
The intention is to develop industry led course in hospitality and health in the future.
Currently the Institute is located in the former hospital's former nursing quarters as an interim operating location while the hospital is redeveloped. The redevelopment will begin shortly with the renovation of classroom space to enable student lectures to be delivered.
Once further funding is available the continuation of the redevelopment will include further teaching space, offices, a commercial kitchen for the delivery of hospitality training and a dedicated wing to deliver health related training.
The institute has received wide ranging community, government and industry support since its inception. Various agencies have graciously provided much needed funding in the ï¾start up' phase of the institute to help establish governance and planning work.
Significant funding contributions have been received from Regional Development Victoria (RDV) and Adult and Community Further Education (ACFE). Continued support has also been given by local businesses and organisations in the form of resources and time.
Organisations that have provided significant support include the Alexandra District Hospital, Murrindindi Shire Council, Central Ranges Local Learning and Employment Network (CRLLEN), Continuing Education and Arts Centre of Alexandra (CEACA) and the Outdoor Education Group (OEG).
MTI Executive Officer Scott Bewley explained that "without this generous support the Institute would not be possible, We are grateful for the wonderful support we have received in getting established."
An official launch is planned for early April 2012.
For further information contact HTI Executive Officer Scott Bewley on 0400 689 013.

http://www.murrindinditraininginstitute.org.au