Author: Samantha Ardley

On 4 December 2025 in Brisbane, a remarkable and deeply meaningful moment took place. The Miles family, humble, community-minded, and rarely seeking recognition, were honoured with the John Studdy Award, the highest national award presented by MS Australia.

This award recognises individuals or families whose commitment and contribution to supporting people living with multiple sclerosis has been extraordinary over a sustained period. For the Miles family, that period has been more than 12 years, working tirelessly alongside MS Queensland and MS Australia to advocate, fundraise, volunteer, and support the MS community in genuine and practical ways.

Many people may not personally know the Miles family, but their impact has reached far across Queensland and beyond.

A Personal Connection for AWCC

For AWCC, this achievement carries special significance. Our Manager is not watching this from the sidelines — he has been directly involved in this 12-year journey with his wife and the Miles family.

Together, they have:

• Volunteered at MS Queensland events
• Assisted in major fundraising initiatives
• Helped coordinate community support activities
• Stood beside families affected by MS
• Contributed countless hours to awareness and advocacy

Why We Celebrate This Achievement

At AWCC, we talk about community: supporting it, strengthening it, and being part of something bigger than ourselves. But with the Miles family, this isn’t a slogan — it’s lived experience.

When people ask why AWCC shows up, why we support community organisations, why we invest in people, the answer is simple:

Because these are the values our people live every day.

Because making a difference is not what we talk about — it’s what we do.

The Miles family’s story is a powerful example of the kind of character, heart, and service that shape the culture of AWCC.

A National Honour, Truly Earned

Receiving the John Studdy Award is no small milestone. It is the highest honour given by MS Australia — reserved for only the most significant contribution over many years.

For the Miles family to receive this award is a testament to their compassion, resilience, generosity, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Their service has strengthened MS Queensland, supported countless families, and contributed to improving the lives of people living with MS.

A Proud Moment for a Remarkable Family

To the Miles family — and to our AWCC Manager who has been part of this journey from the beginning — we extend our heartfelt congratulations.

Your dedication is inspiring.

Your humility is grounding.

Your commitment reflects the very best of what community means.

This is a story worth celebrating — not just because of the award, but because it reminds us that extraordinary people walk quietly among us, making a difference year after year.

And AWCC is proud to be connected to that story.

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The Australian Well Control Centre (AWCC) is proud to share several key developments that have shaped a powerful start to 2025. With growing demand for our programs, new government-backed funding, and updated safety standards across the industry, AWCC continues to lead the way in developing a capable, confident, and job-ready oil and gas workforce.

Surge in Demand for the Turbo Certificate II Program

One of the most notable trends this year has been the sharp rise in bookings for AWCC’s Turbo Program (RII21120 Certificate II in Oil & Gas Drilling (Onshore) and Well Servicing) Following strong momentum through late 2024, 2025 has seen even greater demand from both individuals and employers seeking fast-tracked, high-quality training options.

This surge highlights the industry’s increasing need for job-ready, compliant personnel who can step onto site with the skills, competencies, and safety readiness required by Queensland’s Petroleum & Gas Inspectorate.

AWCC’s Turbo Program directly supports this demand, helping participants gain employment faster by providing:

• A nationally recognised qualification

• A comprehensive, seven-day pathway supported by industry

• Training aligned with regulatory competency requirements

• Practical skills valued by drilling contractors and well servicing companies

To support growing enrolments, AWCC has expanded training capacity while maintaining the high standards that make the Turbo Program one of the most trusted entry pathways into Oil & Gas.

SAS Funding Now Available Through the Queensland Government

A major milestone for AWCC this year has been our approval as a Skills Assured Supplier (SAS) for the Turbo Certificate II in Oil & Gas Well Servicing.

This government-backed funding enables eligible participants to access significantly subsidised training, reducing financial barriers and making a career in Oil & Gas more accessible than ever before.

Becoming a recognised SAS provider reflects:

• The quality and compliance of AWCC’s training

• Our alignment with Queensland Government workforce priorities

• A shared commitment to developing skilled workers across the state

This achievement strengthens AWCC’s longstanding role in building a safer, more capable resources workforce for Queensland and beyond.

Transition to ISI Revision 7: Strengthening Safety Standards

Safety remains at the core of everything AWCC delivers. In 2025, the industry completed a major shift from Safer Together‘s Industry Safety Induction (ISI) Revision 6 to Revision 7, and AWCC is proud to have fully transitioned all training to the latest standard.

ISI Revision 7 introduces:

• Updated safety and hazard-awareness expectations

• Refreshed risk-management practices

• Improved clarity around learner competency requirements

• Content more accurately aligned to modern operational environments

All AWCC trainers have undertaken dedicated upskilling to ensure they deliver these improvements with accuracy and authority. Early feedback from participants and employers has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly around the increased clarity and relevance of the updated material.

Driving Industry Capability Into the Future

From funding breakthroughs to refined safety standards and record demand for workforce-ready training, AWCC is entering 2025 with strong momentum and a renewed commitment to developing Australia’s oil and gas talent pipeline.

These achievements reflect our mission: to deliver training that is practical, current, compliant, and designed for real career outcomes.

Ready to Start Your Oil & Gas Career?

Take the next step with AWCC.

👉 Explore all courses
👉 Turbo Cert II Program
📩 Email: admin@wellcontrolcentre.com.au
📞 Call: 07 4638 0532

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As we close out 2025, AWCC is proud to reflect on a standout year of IWCF Well Control training delivered weekly across Brisbane and Toowoomba. With consistent Level 3 and Level 4 programs running all year, we’ve supported hundreds of drilling, completions, and well servicing personnel in staying compliant, confident, and industry-ready.

Well Control is the backbone of safe operations in the Oil & Gas sector and throughout 2025, demand for reliable, high-standard training continued to grow. We’re grateful to every student and company who trained with us this year and helped strengthen safety across the industry.

Weekly Delivery That Supports Industry Needs

AWCC remains the only provider in Australasia offering weekly IWCF Level 3 & 4 Well Control in both Brisbane and Toowoomba.
This availability allowed:

• Workers to secure training without long wait times

• FIFO crews to align training with rosters

• Companies to maintain compliance during busy operational periods

• Teams to prepare for new drilling campaigns and role advancement

Consistency has been key to ensuring the industry stays mobilised, safe, and ready.

Mid-Year Upgrade: New Simulators Installed in June

One of our biggest milestones in 2025 was the introduction of brand-new IWCF simulators around June.

These upgraded systems have significantly enhanced:

• Scenario realism

• Pressure and circulation modelling

• Trainee engagement

• Operational accuracy

• Learning outcomes and exam readiness

Paired with AWCC’s dedicated pre-assessment simulator practice time, the new technology has helped students build stronger situational awareness and decision-making under pressure.

The result?
More confident candidates — and better-prepared personnel returning to the field.

Growing Demand for Skilled Well Control Personnel

Throughout 2025, the need for qualified Level 3 & 4 staff remained strong across drilling and well servicing operations. We saw increased enrolments from:

• Crews mobilising for major drilling and workover programs

• Supervisors upgrading into higher-responsibility positions

• Workers renewing competency after roster breaks

• Companies strengthening operational safety standards

This demand is expected to continue into 2026, and many organisations have already secured early-year bookings.

Looking Ahead to 2026

AWCC will continue expanding our capability and support for industry needs in the new year, including:

• Enhanced IWCF Well Intervention delivery

• Continued weekly Level 3 and 4 Well Control in both centres

• Ongoing investment in practical training resources

• Stronger progression pathways for emerging supervisors and drillers

Our commitment remains the same: deliver the most accessible, practical, and industry-trusted well control training in the region.

Thank You for a Safe & Successful 2025

To every drilling contractor, well servicing company, supervisor, driller, derrickman, and aspiring industry professional — thank you for choosing AWCC this year.

Your dedication to developing strong well control competency is what keeps our industry safe, capable, and forward moving. We’re proud to support your teams and look forward to partnering with you throughout 2026.

Book Ahead for 2026

January and February IWCF courses are already filling quickly.
Secure your preferred dates early to avoid delays.

👉 View upcoming IWCF Level 3 & 4 dates
👉 Corporate bookings & enquiries: admin@wellcontrolcentre.com.au

Wishing you a safe and restful break, we look forward to supporting your training needs in 2026.

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December is one of the busiest and most high-pressure months for Australia’s transport, logistics, procurement, and construction sectors. With year-end deadlines, increased freight movement, shutdown preparation, and new starter inductions, the risk of incidents related to loading, unloading, and securing cargo rises sharply.

Incorrect load restraint remains a major cause of workplace accidents at this time of year—many of which are entirely preventable with the right skills and training.

Why December Is a High-Risk Time for Cargo Handling

The festive season creates a perfect storm of factors that heighten workplace risk:

• Increased freight volumes and tighter delivery schedules

• Rushed loading/unloading to meet end-of-year deadlines

• Fatigue and heat, impacting decision-making and physical performance

• New or temporary workers, often with limited experience

• Higher site traffic from contractors, shutdown crews, and transport vehicles

• Reduced staffing, placing more pressure on fewer people

When these elements combine, even small mistakes — an unsecured strap, misjudged load weight, incorrect equipment use — can lead to serious incidents.

This is why December is the ideal time to revisit safe cargo handling practices and ensure everyone on site is confident, competent, and alert.

The Real Impact of Unsafe Load Handling

Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can lead to:

• Load shifts

• Vehicle instability or rollovers

• Manual handling injuries

• Struck-by incidents

• Equipment damage

• Chain of Responsibility breaches

Unfortunately, December is when these incidents spike — and the common root cause is rushing.

Taking a few extra moments to assess the load, communicate clearly, and apply correct restraint techniques can prevent life-threatening situations.

A Timely Reminder Before the Holiday Break

As teams race to finalise projects and dispatch goods before shutdown, safety must take priority.
Encourage your workforce to:

• Slow down and follow correct loading procedures

• Use the right restraints, tools and equipment

• Take breaks when fatigued

• Inspect loads thoroughly before transport

• Communicate clearly with spotters and drivers

• Speak up if something doesn’t look safe

These behaviours ensure everyone goes home safely for the holidays.

Planning Ahead: Strengthen Your Team for 2026

For businesses wanting to improve cargo safety in the new year, AWCC delivers a clustered Load & Secure Cargo program, combining:

• TLID0015 Load and Unload Goods/Cargo

• TLIA1001 Secure Cargo

This one-day course is offered weekly in Toowoomba and Brisbane and is ideal for:

• Warehouse and logistics workers

• Transport and freight teams

• Construction and civil crews

• Shutdown and maintenance staff

• New starters needing foundational skills

• Anyone responsible for loading, unloading, or securing goods

It’s a practical, compliance-focused program that strengthens workers’ ability to assess loads, handle equipment safely, and secure cargo correctly — all critical skills heading into 2026.

Although AWCC is closed from 22 December 2025 – 4 January 2026, you can still enquire or secure January bookings, and our admin team will action requests as soon as we return.

Start 2026 With a Safety-First Approach

As your team heads into the festive break, remind them that safety doesn’t go on holiday. Proper cargo handling protects workers, assets, and the community — especially during the busiest season of the year.

AWCC looks forward to supporting your training needs when we reopen on 5 January 2026.
To request dates or book your team into our Load & Secure Cargo course:

👉 Email: admin@wellcontrolcentre.com.au
👉 View courses here

Stay safe, enjoy the break, and return ready for a strong start to 2026.

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As 2025 draws to a close, AWCC is gearing up for one of our biggest years yet. With new training programs, facility upgrades, and expanded pathways for both new entrants and experienced industry professionals, 2026 is set to deliver more opportunities, more capability, and more support than ever before.

Here’s a first look at what’s coming to AWCC in the new year.

Launching Our New Purpose-Built FTU for Advanced Training

We are proud to announce the completion of AWCC’s newly developed Training FTU (Fluid Transfer Unit), a major upgrade to our practical training capability and a key component in preparing students for real-world oil and gas operations.

The FTU has been purpose-built to support hands-on learning in:

✓ Fluid handling and circulation systems

✓ Pressure control fundamentals

✓ Pump operations

✓ Line-up procedures and safe transfer practices

✓ Identifying hazards and managing risks associated with fluid movement on a rig or well servicing site

This new training asset allows students to develop genuine field-ready competency by working with equipment and scenarios that replicate actual industry conditions.

The FTU will play a crucial role in supporting the delivery of our upcoming Turbo 3 Program (Certificate III in Oil & Gas Drilling (Onshore) and Well Servicing) — ensuring graduates gain practical, confidence-building experience before stepping into higher-responsibility roles on site.

This investment reinforces AWCC’s commitment to delivering the most realistic, industry-aligned training environment available in Australia.

Turbo 3 Is Coming: Certificate III in Oil & Gas Drilling (Onshore) and Well Servicing

Following the strong success of our Turbo Program, AWCC will launch Turbo 3 in 2026 — an accelerated pathway to the Certificate III in Oil & Gas Drilling (Onshore) and Well Servicing.

Turbo 3 will provide:

✓ A nationally recognised qualification aligned with real industry needs

✓ Structured practical components using the new FTU

✓ Fast-tracked training designed to prepare students for immediate employment

✓ A clear progression pathway for workers advancing from entry-level roles

This program is built for those ready to take the next step in their career and move into higher-responsibility field positions.

More details, dates, and enrolment options will be announced early in 2026.

Expanded IWCF Well Intervention Training in 2026

To support the growing demand for upskilling in well servicing and completions, AWCC will be expanding our IWCF Well Intervention training options next year.

This includes training across key domains such as:

Coiled tubing, wireline, snubbing and completion operations

Delivered by highly experienced instructors and supported by AWCC’s dedicated training facilities, our Well Intervention programs ensure workers gain the technical knowledge and pressure-control competence required to operate safely and effectively in high-risk environments.

This expansion strengthens AWCC’s position as Australia’s leading provider of IWCF Well Control and Intervention training.

Continued Investment in Industry-Leading Safety Training

Throughout 2026, AWCC will continue delivering and improving our high-demand courses, including:

IWCF Levels 3 & 4 Well Control (weekly, Brisbane & Toowoomba).

Short courses such as Working at Heights, Confined Space, Gas Test Atmospheres, 4WD & more.

Turbo Program pathways for new entrants into Oil & Gas.

With increased course availability and enhanced practical training environments, workers and companies can expect even more flexibility, accessibility, and industry-aligned content.

Building the Future of Training Together

2026 represents a major milestone for AWCC. From new facilities and expanded programs to elevated capability in Well Control and Well Intervention, our goal remains the same:

To provide the safest, most practical, most industry-ready training in Australia.

We’re excited to bring you along for what promises to be our biggest and most impactful year yet.

Stay Updated & Secure Your 2026 Training Early

Many of our January and February courses are already filling quickly. To stay ahead of demand:

👉 Contact admin@wellcontrolcentre.com.au for enrolments or corporate bookings
👉 Follow AWCC on social media to view our weekly courses calendar, upcoming announcements on Turbo 3 and IWCF Well Intervention.

👉 View our full range of courses here

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As the “silly season” approaches, Australians hit the road in record numbers—heading off on holidays, camping trips, and long-awaited family adventures. With more traffic, higher fatigue, extreme heat and rapidly changing weather, road and off-road incidents increase across the country.

Whether you’re towing, highway driving, or exploring new off-road tracks, the key to a safe holiday is preparation, confidence, and the right 4WD skills.

A High-Risk Time of Year for Australian Drivers

Holiday driving comes with added risks, especially when vehicles are heavily loaded or travelling long distances. Common challenges include:
• Heavy traffic and extended travel times
• Driver fatigue from busy end-of-year schedules
• Stress, distraction, and time pressure
• Increased off-road exploration by inexperienced drivers
• Summer storms and rapidly changing track conditions

Even experienced drivers can find themselves in dangerous situations without the correct knowledge and preparation.

Why Refresh Your 4WD Skills Before Your Holiday Trip

A high-quality 4WD training course gives you the confidence and practical skills needed to stay safe during the busiest time of year on Australian roads.

A refresher helps you:
• Understand your vehicle’s 4WD systems and technology
• Build confidence before tackling unfamiliar terrain
• Prevent incidents with correct driving techniques
• Learn safe, controlled recovery methods
• Make smarter decisions in unpredictable conditions

Refreshing your 4×4 skills now is one of the best investments you can make for a safe and stress-free holiday.

Essential Holiday Driving Safety Tips

Stay safe on the road this festive season by keeping these key tips in mind:
• Plan your trip and avoid driving tired
• Take breaks every two hours
• Adjust your driving for heavy loads and towing
• Allow extra time—don’t rush in holiday traffic
• Stay alert, drive defensively, and watch for changing conditions

Invest in a Safer Holiday Season

The festive season should be filled with adventure—not preventable accidents. A small investment in 4WD or road safety training goes a long way toward protecting you, your passengers, and your vehicle.

With limited courses remaining, now is the time to book and head into the holidays with confidence.

Drive smart. Drive safe. Enjoy the journey.

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In early December, AWCC travelled across Western Queensland to strengthen long-standing industry relationships and reinforce the connection between high-quality training and real on-site capability. 

The first stop was Roma, where the team met with Wild Desert leadership and toured their facility. The visit provided valuable insight into their operations, equipment standards, and workforce capability—many of whom have completed training through AWCC. As the team departed Roma, a significant storm swept across the region, highlighting the challenging and unpredictable conditions faced by the industry. 

From Roma, the team travelled east to Rig 20 to demonstrate ongoing collaboration between Wild Desert and AWCC at a working site. The ground was muddy underfoot after the storm, but the rig and equipment were exceptionally well maintained. The crew on site displayed strong competency and professionalism—clear evidence of the effectiveness of AWCC’s hands-on training approach. 

Following the Rig 20 visit, AWCC continued south-east to Wild Desert’s newest asset, Rig 36. Joined by Origin’s Operational Control Representatives (OCRs) and the Wild Desert Rig Manager, the team was provided with a full tour of the operation. Rig 36 showcased modern rig capability, strong safety culture, and efficient systems, once again reinforcing the value of collaboration between training providers and industry operators. 

These visits highlight a key strength of AWCC’s approach: engaging directly with industry in their operational environments. By being on site, speaking with crews, and experiencing the conditions firsthand, AWCC ensures training remains relevant, practical, and aligned to what employers require. 

Collaboration between training organisations and industry is vital to workforce readiness, safety, and long-term capability building. AWCC’s commitment to maintaining these partnerships—through genuine face-to-face engagement—continues to strengthen the bridge between classroom training and the demands of the field, supporting a workforce that is skilled, confident, and job-ready. 

This trip served as another reminder that when trainers and operators work closely together, the outcomes are safer operations, stronger teams, and a more capable energy sector. 

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AWCC Holiday Closure: 22 December 2025 – 4 January 2026

As the year winds down and worksites across Australia prepare for a well-earned break, the holiday period brings both celebration and increased risk. December is traditionally one of the busiest—and most hazardous—times for workers in the energy, mining, and construction sectors. With tighter deadlines, reduced staffing, and heightened fatigue, the likelihood of incidents rises significantly.

At AWCC, safety isn’t seasonal. It’s a year-round commitment. That’s why, as we approach the end of 2025, we want to highlight key safety reminders, help you plan your training needs, and ensure your team heads into the new year confident, compliant, and ready.

A Higher-Risk Time of Year: Stay Alert, Stay Safe

The holiday period often sees:

Increased travel and fatigue, compressed work schedules before shutdown, new starters entering worksites, higher workplace incident rates, especially involving falls, equipment handling, and vehicle movement.

Whether you’re preparing for a shutdown, ramping up for January operations, or sending crews home for break, now is the time to prioritise safety conversations and reinforce best practices.

Encourage your teams to:
✓ Slow down and avoid rushing tasks
✓ Double-check equipment and safety controls
✓ Speak up about hazards and near misses
✓ Take time to reset mentally before returning in January

A safe end to 2025 ensures a strong start to 2026.

January Training Is Filling Fast

Many companies use the December–January break to plan their training needs for the year ahead. With high demand expected in early 2026, we encourage:

✓ Corporate clients to pre-book short courses

✓ Well servicing teams to secure IWCF dates

✓ New starters to take advantage of Turbo Program & SAS Funding opportunities

✓ Safety reps to confirm HSR refresher schedules

Your January planning now prevents delays later.

AWCC Holiday Closure Dates

Our centres will be closed from Monday 22 December 2025 and will re-open on Monday 5 January 2026.

During this period, emails and enquiries may experience delays. All bookings received over the break will be actioned when the team returns.

We recommend securing December and early January training before the 22nd to avoid missing out.

Thank You for a Big 2025

2025 has been an incredible year of growth and progress for AWCC. From expanding training centres, to new programs, to helping hundreds of workers enter or advance within the industry—none of it would be possible without your trust and support.

To our students, partners, corporate clients, and industry friends:
Thank you for choosing AWCC as your training provider.

Wishing You a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

From all of us at the Australian Well Control Centre, we wish you and your families a safe, restful, and enjoyable break. Stay safe, look after one another, and we’ll see you in 2026 with more courses, more opportunities, and more ways to support your success.

Book Before the Break

Secure your final 2025 training or lock in your January dates now.

👉 View courses
👉 Bookings & enquiries: admin@wellcontrolcentre.com.au

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Weekly courses every Monday – Brisbane & Toowoomba
Course Code: RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights

Working at heights remains one of the highest-risk activities across Australia’s energy, mining, and construction sectors. Despite strict regulations and ongoing awareness campaigns, fall incidents continue to occur far too often, many resulting in severe injury and, in some cases, fatalities (WorkSafe, 2025).

Whether you’re climbing, accessing elevated structures, performing maintenance, or working from platforms, being properly trained isn’t just a compliance requirement—it’s a critical safety layer protecting both you and your team.

At AWCC, the Work Safely at Heights course is designed to build real confidence, develop practical capability, and ensure workers understand how to identify, plan for, and control the risks associated with working above ground level.

Why This Course Is Essential

Falls from height remain a leading cause of workplace incidents across high-risk industries. Workers need more than theoretical knowledge—they need hands-on practice, real equipment familiarity, and the ability to make safe decisions under pressure.

At AWCC, the Work Safely at Heights course equips participants with exactly that.

What You’ll Learn (Performance Skills)

Across this one-day course, students will demonstrate key competencies, including how to:

• Access, interpret and apply safety documentation and work instructions

• Assess hazards and risks associated with working at heights

• Select, wear, and maintain essential PPE

• Identify and operate safety systems such as fall protection equipment

• Correctly fit, adjust, inspect, and anchor harnesses and associated gear

• Safely perform tasks while working at heights

• Implement effective control measures to keep both themselves and co-workers safe

These skills aren’t just assessed once, participants must demonstrate competence over multiple scenarios to ensure they’re ready for real-world tasks.

Knowledge Gained (Theory Skills)

Upon completion, candidates will also be able to:

• Identify and explain equipment components and their functions

• Comply with manufacturer specifications and regulatory requirements

• Safely shift and handle tools and materials at height

• Understand key safety systems and height-specific work practices

• Implement work methods that ensure compliance and efficiency

• Apply safe work procedures to various elevated work environments

This balance of knowledge and performance ensures students walk away with a fully rounded understanding of height safety, essential for preventing incidents and meeting employer expectations.

Why Train with AWCC?

At AWCC, we don’t just teach the theory, we bring real industry experience into every session.

Our trainers are actual industry professionals with backgrounds as Derrickmen, Riggers, and more. They’ve worked in the same environments you’re heading into, and they understand the realities of fieldwork.

Our Purpose-Built Heights Facility Sets Us Apart

Forget converted containers or basic setups. AWCC has invested in a purpose-built, one-of-a-kind Heights Facility designed to replicate real tasks performed in the Energy, Mining, and Construction sectors—within a controlled, safe environment.

This isn’t a simulator. It’s a genuine heights experience where you’ll practice:

• Equipment setup

• Safe climbing

• Anchor system use

• Fall protection system checks

• Controlled work from elevated structures

Because we’ve worked in the field, we built a facility that actually reflects it.

Additional AWCC Advantages

• A genuinely supportive and high-quality training experience

• Weekly courses every Monday in both Brisbane and Toowoomba

• Face-to-face instruction + extended hands-on training

Who Should Attend?

This course is essential for:

• Construction workers

• Energy & mining personnel

• Field technicians

• Maintenance workers

• Any worker needing Work Safely at Heights certification for site access or job readiness

Book Your Working at Heights Course

AWCC delivers RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights every Monday in Brisbane and Toowoomba.

Secure your spot and get job-ready with industry-leading training.

👉 View upcoming dates & book now: RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights

👉 For group bookings or corporate training: admin@wellcontrolcentre.com.au

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The AWCC Turbo Program continues to surge forward, cementing its position as one of the most impactful pathways into the Oil & Gas industry. Designed as an accelerated, seven-day qualification delivered from our Brisbane and Toowoomba training centres, the Turbo Program provides students with the nationally recognised RII21120 Certificate II in Oil & Gas Drilling (Onshore) and Well Servicing, and a fast-track into real workforce opportunities.

This hands-on, industry-aligned qualification equips future roustabouts, lease hands, utility workers, floormen and motormen with the practical capability and confidence needed to step onto site safely, competently and job-ready. With 12 essential units, including rig lease operations, gas testing atmospheres, 4WD operations, working at heights, confined space entry and more. Graduates complete the program with the full skill set required for entry-level drilling and well servicing roles.

Award-Winning, Industry-Recognised Training

With growing recognition and award wins, the Turbo Program is proving itself as a game-changing entry pathway into Oil & Gas.

It was recently named Winner of the 2025 Surat Basin Energy Award – Innovation Category, acknowledging its forward-thinking structure and direct impact on the regional workforce.

It was also a Finalist in two categories at the 2025 Toowoomba Business Excellence Awards:

• Innovation & Technology
• Professional Services

These achievements reinforce the program’s quality, credibility and growing industry influence.

SAS Funding Now Available – Making Oil & Gas Careers More Accessible Than Ever

One of the biggest accelerators of the Turbo Program’s success has been the introduction of SAS Funding, now available to eligible students.

This is a major shift for Queenslanders.
For the first time, individuals who may have felt a career in Oil & Gas was financially out of reach now have a genuine, affordable pathway into one of Australia’s highest-demand sectors.

SAS Funding is opening doors for:

• School leavers looking for a clear, fast, job-ready career pathway
• Parents wanting to support their teens or young adults into a safe, future-focused industry
• Friends or family members seeking a fresh start or career change
• Regional Queenslanders who want secure, well-paid employment close to home
• Anyone wanting a nationally recognised qualification without years of study

This funding has already led to a strong surge in enquiries, eligibility checks and confirmed bookings, proving just how needed and valued this support is across the community.

For many households, this is not just training. It’s an opportunity that can genuinely change someone’s future.

Strong Bookings and a Growing Pipeline of Future Talent

Over the past month, AWCC has seen a steady rise in enrolments across both Brisbane and Toowoomba. Families are referring family. Workers are encouraging their mates. School leavers are calling after hearing about funding from teachers, parents, or past students.

The message is clear:

This program is becoming a pathway of choice for those seeking real opportunity, real skills and real employment outcomes.

Graduates may also be considered for the AWCC ACCESS Labour Program, offering potential placement opportunities directly into Oil & Gas operations, a major advantage for anyone eager to start work immediately.

Career Pathways Beyond the Certificate

Upon completion of the RII21120 qualification, graduates gain the foundation to move into key career pathways, progressing from entry-level roles through to highly skilled positions, including:

Certificate III (coming soon to AWCC)

• Derrickman
• Assistant / Trainee Driller

Certificate IV

• Driller

Diploma

• Rig Manager
• Toolpusher
• Night Push

A Program Designed for Industry, Backed by Industry

As the Oil & Gas sector continues to grow, AWCC’s Turbo Program is perfectly placed to supply industry with safe, competent and job-ready personnel. Now, with the addition of SAS Funding, the program is more than just innovative, it’s accessible, affordable and transformational. Anybody can assess their eligibility on our SAS funding page.

For families, parents, school leavers and anyone looking for a new direction, this is a rare opportunity to access industry-leading training at a significantly reduced cost. With enrolments climbing and recognition growing, the Turbo Program is set to shape the workforce powering Australia’s future energy projects.

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This month, our trainers at the Australian Well Control Centre (AWCC) have been especially busy delivering a wide range of Dangerous Goods (DG) training courses across Queensland. From in-house sessions at our Toowoomba and Brisbane training centres to onsite delivery at external client facilities, the rising demand for DG training highlights the essential role these programs play in maintaining safe, compliant, and effective operations across the energy, resources, and transport sectors.

Supporting Safe Handling of Hazardous Materials

Our Dangerous Goods courses ensure personnel are equipped with the knowledge and competencies required to safely handle, store, classify, and transport hazardous materials in accordance with Australian standards and regulatory requirements.

Throughout the sessions, participants gained critical knowledge in:

• Dangerous Goods classifications

• Safety and environmental risk management

• Correct labelling, placarding, and documentation

• Segregation and storage rules

• Manual handling and safe work procedures

• Spill response and emergency protocols

These comprehensive courses are designed to reduce workplace risks, strengthen compliance, and support a positive safety culture across all industrial environments.

Flexible Training Delivery for Industry Needs

To support the diverse operational requirements of our clients, AWCC delivers Dangerous Goods training in multiple formats:

• In-house DG courses at our Toowoomba and Brisbane facilities

• Onsite training delivered directly at client workplaces

• Customised training options tailored to specific hazards, industries, or workforce needs

This flexible delivery model ensures organisations can schedule training around operations while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Committed to Raising Safety Standards

We are extremely proud of the dedication shown by our training team and the strong engagement from participants this month. Every completed Dangerous Goods course strengthens industry-wide capability and contributes to safer, more compliant workplaces across Queensland’s vital oil and gas, resources, and transport sectors.

Looking to Strengthen Your Team’s Safety Capabilities?

AWCC offers a full suite of safety, compliance, and industry skills courses, including Dangerous Goods, Confined Space, Working at Heights, Gas Test Atmosphere, and more. Check out our courses page.

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The Australian Well Control Centre (AWCC) was proud to attend the recent TSBE Manufacturing event at Wellcamp Airport — an event that highlighted just how quickly Queensland’s manufacturing landscape is evolving. With $29 million now being injected into Queensland’s manufacturing economy statewide, and a further $79.1 million in new industry grants currently being distributed across the regions, the momentum behind manufacturing, skills development and regional capability has never been stronger. 

As South East Queensland reaches its natural limits for expansion, Toowoomba is emerging as the ideal location for the next stage of Queensland’s industrial growth. The region offers space, infrastructure, a motivated workforce and a forward-thinking business community. At the event, the message was clear: Toowoomba is not just participating in Queensland’s future — it is positioning itself as a major industrial hub ready to support advanced manufacturing, energy projects, defence capability and global export pathways. 

One of the most compelling stories presented was the manufacturing of the Ghost Bat autonomous drone aircraft, a world-leading defence project being built right here in Toowoomba. This single initiative brings with it the need for around 120 highly skilled workers, ranging from engineering and fabrication to testing, logistics and operational support. It’s a powerful example of what the region is capable of when innovation meets local opportunity. It also reinforces the reality that high-value projects require a high-value workforce — something the region must continue to build at pace. 

However, industry growth comes with challenges. Labour shortages and widening skill gaps were common themes throughout the event, particularly as Queensland opens nine new areas for gas exploration and ramps up activity across manufacturing, construction, gas, and defence. Businesses are ready to scale, but the workforce pipeline needs strengthening. This is where targeted training and genuine industry involvement become critical. 

The discussions at Wellcamp made it clear that Queensland is driving innovation, improving supply chain resilience, reducing red tape, and positioning regional centres like Toowoomba as gateways to global markets. The opportunities ahead are significant — but they can only be realised with coordinated community, industry and training support. 

For AWCC, this event wasn’t just another item on the calendar. It was a reflection of who we are and why we operate the way we do. While some training providers remain on the sidelines, AWCC is actively involved in the conversations shaping Toowoomba’s future. We were in the room, listening to industry leaders, understanding emerging workforce needs, and strengthening the relationships that help our region thrive. This is our difference. We are invested in the community, engaged with industry, and focused on delivering training that supports real jobs and real futures. 

Toowoomba stands on the brink of major economic transformation. More manufacturing, more defence capability, more gas development, and more investment will mean more opportunities for local workers, school-leavers and career changers. With the right training, safety skills and industry readiness, the region can seize these opportunities and build a workforce that attracts even more projects to our doorstep. 

AWCC is proud to be part of this momentum — supporting the region, strengthening industry capability, and helping ensure Toowoomba continues to grow as one of Queensland’s most important industrial centres. Our commitment to the community and our involvement in events like TSBE’s manufacturing showcase demonstrate our belief in this region: its people, its potential, and its future. 

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