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Learner Craig 'Cracker' Whitfield got behind Moree's Small Engines course by organising donated mowers for fellow students to use during class.
MOREE CAMPUS
How Local Learner 'Cracker' Helped Bring Learning To Life
When Craig ‘Cracker’ Whitfield signed up at Community College Northern Inland (CCNI) to learn about ancient grains as part of Moree’s groundbreaking Native Grains Project, it was hard to predict where the journey would lead next.
What followed was enrolment in the Certificate III in Individual Support, first aid training, and more recently, the Introduction to Small Engines course delivered through CCNI’s Employment Allrounder – Trade Pathway Program at Moree Campus.
Introduction to Small Engines taught learners practical workshop skills including small engine maintenance, safe use of hand tools, workplace safety, preventative maintenance practices and working effectively in trade environments.
Wanting to better understand the equipment used in his growing lawn maintenance business, Craig enrolled in the hands-on workshop to build practical mechanical skills and confidence working with small engines.
“I wanted to learn the basic mechanics of the equipment I’m using,” Craig said.
But Craig’s involvement in the workshop extended well beyond his own learning experience.
He also organised the donation of lawnmowers used throughout the course, helping create valuable hands-on learning opportunities for fellow students participating in the training.
The course introduced learners to practical workshop skills including small engine maintenance, safe use of hand tools, workplace safety, preventative maintenance practices and working effectively in trade environments.
Introduction to Small Engines was funded under the NSW Government's Adult and Community Education (ACE) program.
Using donated lawnmowers and workshop equipment, students were able to apply their knowledge in a relaxed learning space focused on practical experience and teamwork.
Craig has already begun sharing some of the skills and knowledge gained during the course with younger members of the community, helping them build confidence and gain exposure to practical work opportunities.
“He has an eye for the future — for this to be a bit of a social venture to help young people gain skills, maintain their own equipment and build connection and confidence,” said Moree Campus Coordinator Kylie Gray.
For Craig, the warm and friendly environment at CCNI was an important part of the experience — encouraging him to continue exploring new learning opportunities.
“The welcoming atmosphere at the College where I study Certificate III in Individual Support made me feel very comfortable, like it was a small family. This warmth of place is what motivated me to also study Ancient Grains, First Aid and Small Engines workshops,” he said.
With his aged care and disability support training due for completion mid-year, Craig is keen to continue exploring new opportunities and skills through learning.
Stories like Craig’s highlight how practical, community-based learning can bring people together, helping them build confidence, explore new interests and create community impact.
People interested in future Small Engines workshops or similar Career Pathways programs are encouraged to contact Kylie at CCNI's Moree Campus to register their interest in upcoming opportunities for hands-on skills development and learning. Call 1800 952 264 during business hours.
