TAFE Western Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology student Lochie Svocak from Oberon said he loved the “up close and personal experience” of working in the pits, and rated it one of the best experiences he had ever had.

TAFE Western automotive department Dubbo head teacher Jeremy Reid said five trade-based apprentices, two international students and six Certificate II Motor Sport Technology students thoroughly enjoyed the once-in-a-lifetime experience of providing support to officials, cars, drivers and pit crews across the weekend.

“They were obviously kept very busy across the weekend, and have learnt some important skills and were provided wonderful experiences that would not have been possible if not for TAFE Western,” he said.

“Across the three days the students did things like flag marshalling, scrutineering, worked in pit lane in the safety area and were also part of a special support team that helped anyone who had mechanical or vehicle issues.”

Mr Reid said TAFE Western students and staff helped a vehicle in the combined sedan class with a major fibreglass repair and also helped with significant repairs on a Ferrari.

“The combined sedan class vehicle started in 47th position and had a major crash,” Mr Reid said. 

“Thanks to the support from the TAFE Western team he was able to return to the course and finished sixth overall, which was a great result.

“We also thoroughly enjoyed repairing the rear spoiler on a Ferrari. This included a lesson in carbon fibre repair from a leading industry expert from Ferrari.” 

Mr Reid said he would now turn his focus to liaising with V8 Supercars to organise work experience with the V8 teams for the TAFE Western students at the Bathurst 1000 in September.

Anyone who wants more information on TAFE Western’s huge range of automotive options should visit www.tafewestern.edu.au or phone 1300 823 393.