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TAFE Queensland and 2nd Shot brew fresh opportunities on campus
TAFE Queensland is percolating a new initiative, with the arrival of 2nd Shot on its Toowoomba campus, serving up more than just great coffee—but brewing brighter futures.
From Monday, 10 February 2025, the Toowoomba campus will be home to the new vendor, creating employment and training opportunities for some of Toowoomba’s most vulnerable community members.
Building upon the success of the Ruthven Street location and its mobile food truck, 2nd Shot is excited to broaden their operations to the TAFE Queensland campus on Bridge Street, offering a range of food and beverage options for students and staff.
Operated by BASE Services, 2nd Shot is a community organisation dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and social disadvantage within the Toowoomba community.
Through structured training, mentoring, and employment in hospitality, 2nd Shot supports people to develop new skills and build confidence within a practical environment.
"At TAFE Queensland, we believe in providing people with the skills and support they need to build a better future. We are excited to explore training opportunities with the 2nd Shot team —showcasing our sustainability commitment in action — as to how education and social enterprise can work together to create real change,” said Kate Venables, General Manager of TAFE Queensland's South West region.
“Partnering with a social enterprise is a fantastic opportunity to also reimagine contemporary business models, while ensuring our students have access to the quality services and facilities they need to support their learning journeys,” Ms Venables continued.
Located in the Refectory area within B Block near Bridge Street, the café will be open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 2.00pm, making it the perfect spot for students and staff to grab a cuppa-with-a-cause.
Every purchase pours support into 2nd Shot’s mission, providing hands-on training and contributing to a more inclusive community.
"2nd Shot is more than just a cafe — it's a stepping stone which changes lives one coffee at a time,” said Tiff Spary, Founder of 2nd Shot and 2024 Toowoomba Citizen of the Year award recipient.
“The support from TAFE Queensland will help us provide meaningful training and employment opportunities to people experiencing homelessness, and barriers to employment and training while providing the wrap-around support needed to exit homelessness and unemployment.”
According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, experienced waiters, café workers and other hospitality workers are in high demand.
Strong future growth is predicted In these areas with over 200,000 job openings expected over the next five years.
To celebrate its’ opening week, 2nd Shot is offering small coffees for just $2 from Monday, 10 February to Friday, 14 February 2025.
This partnership aligns with TAFE Queensland’s Social and Environmental Sustainability Action Plan, highlighting its social and ethical responsibility, community engagement, and economic sustainability.
