TasTAFE's Drysdale has been given a fresh new look - and name - through a strong new partnership with the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The Drysdale will now be known as the School for the Visitor Economy, equipping Tasmanians with the skills they need to thrive in our renowned tourism and hospitality sectors.
Minister for Skills and Training, Felix Ellis, said Tasmania is a world-class destination, and we need a world-class workforce to match.
"The School for the Visitor Economy is going to transform the way we train our future generations of tourism and hospitality workers," Minister Ellis said.
"We'll be reviewing course offerings, looking at innovative ways we can provide cutting edge training experiences, and work hand-in-hand with industry to deliver more on-the-job training.
"The School will be run in campuses across the State, ensuring that wherever you are in Tasmania, you have the opportunity to learn from the best of the best in tourism and hospitality.
"One in eight Tassie jobs are linked to these key sectors, resulting in billions of dollars being injected into our economy each year.
"They're one of the many reasons Tasmania shines so bright on the global stage, and through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, we'll continue back them in."
CEO of the Tourism Industry Council Tasmania, Amy Hills, said Tasmania should be the best place in the world to be trained in tourism and hospitality.
"To achieve this, we need to better connect with our young people and raise awareness of the fact that you can have a lifelong career in tourism," Ms Hills said.
"Through this refreshed direction, the tourism industry is excited about working with the THA, our training providers and the broader industry to connect learners with the needs of industry and shape a workforce to meet the growing needs of our visitor economy."
Tasmanian Hospitality Association CEO Steve Old said the rebranding of Drysdale to the School of Visitor Economy is a really positive step forward.
"This is more than a name change, it reflects a modern, more connected approach to training that puts hospitality and tourism right at the centre of Tasmania's future," Mr Old said.
"Hospitality operators across Tasmania – from small cafes to large hotels – will directly benefit from this change. It means better-trained staff, closer industry collaboration, and a clear pathway for Tasmanians wanting to build a long-term career in our vibrant sector."
Liberal candidate for Nelson, Marcus Vermey, highlighted the significance of on-the-job training for young learners.
"As a butcher myself, I've seen firsthand how important it is for apprentices to be in and around a working environment. There're some things you just can't teach in a classroom," Mr Vermey said.
"The School for the Visitor Economy will be a huge boost to the hospitality industry."
