$1m boost to expand WesTrac Technology Training Centre and keep mining recruits on track

WesTrac’s cutting edge facility that is training in-demand workers for the mining industry is set to be bolstered with a $1 million State Government grant.

Mark McGowan announced on Monday the WesTrac Technology Training Centre in Collie would be expanded to include two new buildings to offer further resources and civil construction courses for students and jobseekers.

The facility, which specialises in autonomous operations, was launched in 2020 to meet the growing demand for skilled workers across Australia and overseas and has included partnerships with resources giants such as Rio Tinto and Newmont.

The new buildings to be constructed at the centre include high-tech theory and virtual reality training rooms, along with a new reception, administration, multipurpose room, new plant machinery and boosted communications infrastructure.

Further courses will also run from the WTTC, including up-to-date technology training and additional qualifications through South Regional TAFE.

“This is an important next step in expanding our South West training capacity on technology for the mining and construction industry,” WesTrac chief executive Jarvas Croome said.

Collie is beginning a transition away from traditional mining, with the announcement in June that its State-owned coal-fired power stations would shut by the end of the decade, scrapping about 1200 jobs linked to power generation.

The State Government has so far pumped $662m into the transition.

Mr McGowan, pictured left and below with Mr Croome, Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns and students from the centre, said the latest investment showed the Government was committed to transitioning the local economy.

“We’re continuing to build on Collie’s historical strengths as an industrial hub — transitioning the local economy to support new jobs and opportunities, and setting up the town for the long term,” the Premier said.

“The WTTC is part of Collie’s future — putting the town on the map as a national centre of excellence for autonomous equipment training, with ongoing benefits to WA industry and the community.”

Ms Hanns said the future was bright for Collie residents.

“Collie has a proud history of coal mining and power generation, and an exciting future with new industries emerging,” she said.

WesTrac is owned by Seven Group Holdings, which also has a major stake in Seven West Media, publisher of The West Australian.