Workers from Moree were upskilled in cotton picker operations this week, for the first of at least 10 cotton picker essentials workshops being delivered in New South Wales and Queensland over the next month in the lead-up to picking.

The workshop, delivered by Troy Smith from Real Skills Ag Training, was held at BMC Partnership on Thursday 26 February.

Just under 20 staff from four local cotton growing businesses attended the workshop, where they learnt practical skills in safety, problem solving and general operation of all models of John Deer round module building cotton pickers.

Troy said the training is a “no-brainer” for growers who want to ensure the safety of their workers, maximise efficiency and protect their business from insurance risk.

“There are multiple fatalities each year relating to agricultural machinery operators,” he said.

“These are really high-risk machines, so safety is the most important aspect of this training. The aim is to survive the day, and I have no doubt this training is saving lives and preventing avoidable injuries.

“I think the course pays for itself with operator excellence and efficiency. Cotton pickers cost over $1,000 per hour of downtime, so growers can see the value proposition as productivity increases.

“It’s also wonderful for providing evidence of training, reducing your risk for insurance.”

This season, Real Skills Ag Training has introduced a new, shorter training option, for those participants that might be short on time or have previously attended a workshop. The Cotton Harvest Safety Induction runs for the first three hours of the day and covers all the essentials, making it suitable for everyone involved in cotton harvest.

“It’s designed to refresh safety, fire, and blowdown skills before the season ramps up, as well as cover your compliance needs,” Troy said.

All participants come away with a micro-credential and receive season-long access to course content, videos and mentoring.

Upcoming workshops include:

• St George – 5 March
• Cecil Plains – 9 March
• Dalby – 11 March
• Goondiwindi – 13 March
• Mungindi – 18 March
• Edgeroi – 19 March
• Southern Valleys – 25/26 March

If you would like to attend one of these workshops, or enquire about other available dates, contact Jasmin Smith on 0457 043 726 or email [email protected]. For more information, visit www.realskillsagtraining.com.au.