On Tuesday, August 5, the Orbost Arts Centre hosted a certificate presentation event to shine a light on the remarkable journeys of local forestry workers who have embraced change, retrained and taken bold steps toward new futures.
As the native timber industry winds down under the Victorian Forestry Plan, workers from the harvest and haulage, sawmill and community forestry sectors have faced one of the most significant transitions in the region’s history.
Through it all, they’ve shown determination, adaptability and an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth.
The event, which was held from 4pm to 5.30pm, was not just a formal certificate presentation, it was a celebration of effort, identity and transformation.
It brought together participants of the Forest Works Worker Support Program (WSP) who have undertaken training.
WSP is delivered by ForestWorks and funded by the State Government’s Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).
Many have completed full qualifications, short courses, licences and Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) assessments, some returning to study for the first time in decades.
For some, it’s a new forklift licence – for others, it’s a full certificate in civil construction, accounting and booking, youth, early childhood.
For all, it’s a meaningful step forward.
“This event is about more than certificates,” ForestWorks chief executive officer, Mike Rada said.
“It’s about recognising the commitment it takes to pivot, to learn new skills, and to take control of your future in the face of uncertainty.
“It’s also about the community standing behind them trainers, families, worker assistant coordinators, employers, and peers.”
The celebration also highlighted the strength of collaborative partnerships between training providers, government agencies, local employers, community organisations and the WSP team.
Their collective effort has helped shape real, supported pathways for displaced workers to step into new industries and opportunities with confidence.
Set in the welcoming and creative space of the Orbost Arts Centre, the event offered a relaxed and respectful atmosphere for participants and their families to reflect on how far they’ve come and the possibilities that now lie ahead.
