Media Release: Free RDA Hospitality Jobs Training tackles local workforce shortage

For immediate release.

A free Hospitality Jobs Training course that teaches the basics of hospitality at businesses across Barossa in a week, has resulted in half of the 14 participants landing a job. The course is led by Mark McNamara, Food Projects and Workforce Lead at Regional Development Australia Barossa Gawler Light Adelaide Plains.

“We’ve got a critical workforce shortage in our region and it’s hitting the hospitality industry particularly hard” says Mark. “While accredited courses have their place, they can take a long time. This course gives students the opportunity to build confidence, learn new skills and meet employers, while giving businesses the workers they need – fast!”

RDABGLAP partnered with local businesses like Barossa Farmers Market, Ember Pizza and Novotel Barossa Valley Resort to give on-the-job training in kitchen safety, food handling, barista skills and customer service. Students also learnt what it was like to be a customer, with many experiencing fine dining for the first time. “It was incredible to see students go from being timid and unsure on the floor, to bursting with confidence” says Mark. “We pay particular attention to making this a warm and inviting environment so everyone can learn in a supportive environment” he continues.

Course students were supported at the end of the week to complete their Responsible Service of Alcohol accreditation at Barossa Regional University Campus and introduced to future employers. Participants saw quick results.

“I feel like the whole world is open to me now” says student participant Deb Cook from Kapunda. She’s now employed at Novotel Barossa Valley Resort as a service professional after completing the course. “I’m an older person and I was pleasantly surprised by how diverse the students were. It doesn’t matter if you’re old, young, shy, or outgoing. This course has something for everyone. You can take these skills with you anywhere!” she beams.

Applications for the next round of the course are now open. Training is tentatively rescheduled for June, 2023. To apply for the course, complete the application form at https://barossa.org.au/hospitalitytraining or call Mark McNamara on (08) 8565 3603.

To be eligible, you must be able to travel to the course locations and attend all sessions. The course is open to people 15 and over, although they must be 17.5 years or older to be eligible for a Responsible Service of Alcohol Accreditation.