Women in Ag Build Confidence at Basic Tractor Skills Workshop
Eleven women from across the region came together at the Gippsland Agriculture Centre on the 29th of May for a Basic Tractor Skills Workshop designed to boost knowledge, safety awareness, and confidence around farm machinery.
Hosted in a supportive, informal setting, the workshop focused on understanding tractors from the ground up. Participants learned how to identify key components, conduct daily checks, and safely attach implements like slashers—an area that many admitted they’d never had the chance to explore.
“How to hook up the slasher” and “attachment of implements” were common themes throughout the day. For many, the value lies in learning the how and why behind basic tasks that are overlooked or assumed knowledge. One participant remarked, “I should have done this as a teenager—not at my age now!”
Trainers emphasised safety above all else. Participants were reminded that some safety features are non-negotiable and that regular checks—such as inspecting PTO guards and lynch pins—are critical to safe operation. “Education on safe operations is crucial,” one attendee noted.
The session also stressed the importance of knowing your tractor’s capabilities, understanding older machinery, and never being afraid to question more or read the manual—an often underrated but essential tool. As one participant said, “Don’t let yourself or anyone else take risks.”
Thanks to the support of Gippsland Agricultural Group, Brandt Maffra, Elders Bairnsdale, and Brownwigg Bairnsdale, tractors were on-site, allowing attendees to examine controls, connections, and key components up close. While no driving was involved, the hands-on approach made a big difference. One woman said simply, “It’s all about knowing where and how the controls work—and taking it slow.”
The workshop ended with positive feedback, with many calling for more sessions like this to occur in the future. It was a clear reminder that creating space for women to learn, ask questions, and build confidence around machinery is not only empowering—it’s essential.
The workshop was organised by Landcare, which hosts the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator as part of its ongoing efforts to support learning opportunities in the region. The Australian government supports the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator role through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.
Basic Tractor Skills Day
