Max McCarthy, Yvonne Hanrahan, Narelle Davis, Richard David, Amanda Cridland, James Graham, Wayne Nolan and Natalie Warn took part in the certificate II cleaning operations course run by TAFE teacher Helen Strik.

It was the second round of Wangarang Industries-supported employees to take part in further training through TAFE Western in Orange.

About 150 people attended the graduation.

TAFE Western teacher in charge of manufacturing, Neil Milton, said the units completed as part of the course would enable graduates to clean most domestic and commercial areas. 

“It is just giving the people qualifications and to enhance their skills,” Mr Milton said.

Mrs Strik trained and assessed the participants in a two-hour session each week for 14 weeks and said the course was tailored to their needs.

“They had been cleaning but I taught them how to be more efficient and effective with their cleaning,” she said.

“They worked very well, they all passed and they were very enthusiastic with doing their course. They did very well.” 

Wangarang Industries general manager Kevin McGuire said the non-profit organisation provided job opportunities for about 125 people with a variety of disabilities, including gardening and lawn maintenance, mailing, textiles and assembly. 

“We are very proud of the graduates who are now out in the community undertaking cleaning duties,” Mr McGuire said.

“The completion of the course will allow our supported employees to ensure their cleaning activities are conducted to the highest standard.”

Richard Davis, a Wangarang-supported employee who completed the TAFE training, said he enjoyed the course.

“The best part was the practical activities and we also learnt about safety requirements,” Mr Davis said.

tanya.marschke@fairfaxmedia.com. au