Personalise my view
Breaking ground in his horticulture career
TAFE Queensland Teacher Peter Broomhall is determined to pass on his knowledge and skills to the next generation of horticulturists.
Peter has over 25 years' experience working in the horticulture industry and teaches the Certificate II in Production Horticulture (AHC20316) and Certificate III in Production Horticulture (AHC30616) at our Toowoomba campus.
Having spent most of his career working within the industry, as a horticultural consultant, farmer and at various RTOs over the past decade on a casual basis, Peter jumped at the opportunity to take on a role with TAFE Queensland when the opportunity arose.
"I have over 25 years' experience as a horticultural consultant working in Australia, UK, USA and the Middle East. Over 15 years' as a practicing orchardist on the granite belt, as well as being a farmer with my wife on 25 hectares near Stanthorpe producing figs for the Brisbane and Sydney markets," he said.
"The opportunity arose for a full time position with TAFE Queensland to develop and provide training for the horticulture industry, so I took it - it's now been over a year teaching with TAFE Queensland."
Peter enjoys engaging with like-minded peers who have an interest in the horticulture industry.
"The best part of my job is engaging with industry and students with an interest in developing a career in the industry, as well as producing food that adds value to people's lives," said Peter.
"I attend numerous seminars and workshops to keep up-to-date and stay current with industry, I work alongside industry on traineeships, and participate in industry days," he said.
For anyone considering starting or switching to a career in horticulture, Peter encourages starting by getting the basic skills and building your links with industry contacts.
"I believe the best pathway to take is by getting the basic skills you need to enter the industry, then progressing into the diploma if intending on a long term career," said Peter.
"As well as building your links with industry early so you have a career pathway at the completion of your study."
"Don't be restricted by location or crop. In the horticulture industry opportunities exist Australia wide," he said.