Open day at Freer Farm

Thursday, 14 November 2024

Join us as we open the gates to Freer Farm, home to TasTAFE’s Agricultural Training Centre of Excellence!

Located five minutes west of central Burnie, Freer Farm is a 100-hectare working farm.

Learners here can study agriculture, dairy production, and conservation and ecosystem management, plus short courses including quadbike, chainsaw, tractor and chem-cert qualifications.

Everyone is welcome; visitors can look forward to demonstrations, career conversations and the chance to test-drive simulators.

Schools are welcome to visit between 10.30am – 2pm.

Community between 12 midday and 2pm.

Highlights of the day

• Test yourself on our state-of-the-art VR tractor and machinery simulators
• Observe a silage making demonstration and a drone spraying display
• See our redeveloped cattle handling facility
• Learn about integrating VRI and weather sensing technology with irrigation
• Explore career pathways in agriculture
• Enter the naming competition for our cow*
• Enjoy a free BBQ Lunch and coffee!

A new way of learning

In 2024 a range of state-of-the-art training equipment and technology has arrived on the farm, including:

• Stockyards with the latest cattle-crush technology
• A New Holland T6-145 hp Auto Command 4WD tractor, with Stoll frontend loader
• Digital tractor, forklift and excavator simulators for safe learn-to-drive training
• Full and half-size cattle simulators allowing learners to practice pregnancy and calving procedures.

These investments are all part of TasTAFE’s commitment to meeting industry demands and supporting research, innovation and the future needs of Tasmania’s vibrant agricultural sector.

Come along to our Open Day to find out more!

Working Farm

Freer Farm is a working farm so enclosed shoes are required, please respect any signage or directions from staff and be SunSmart – so bring a hat and sunscreen!

Parking

Limited parking will be available on site as well as on Mooreville Road.

Schools

Schools are welcome to arrive between 10.30am and 2pm. Need help with transport?  No worries – funding is available for buses. Please contact us via events@tastafe.tas.edu.au for details.

Free BBQ and Coffee!

Come along and enjoy a free BBQ and coffee (or cold drink).