Heather Gardner

Heather has been in the building & civil construction industry for over 30 years which means she is super passionate about everything within it.  Most of all, her authentic, no bullshit, practical outcome-driven result for our clients.  After many years frustrated at the quality of VET Sector training, and true to her commitment of people improvement – she decided that training needed to be better (way better!), so she bought a business.  With a steadfast commitment to inspiring leadership, knowledge and getting shit done, she works everyday on our purpose of Enriching Lives through Education. She is 100% dedicated to finding new and better ways for our clients and for FTA to stand out, and be the best version of themselves, in their skills and experience.

Heather inspires us to think differently to create the best experience for everyone.  She is forever asking ‘can we do that better – what is the impact on our clients’ and she certainly doesn’t back down from challenging the status quo.  She loves seeing our clients become qualified, and knows that through the skills development which FTA provides, we change the life of families.

Otherwise: When it comes to down time, she loves getting out of the city nearly most weekends, getting grounded in nature and into the simple things in life at her farm.  Spending time with family and grandkids (and the cows, who are technically family too!) and climbing the odd mountain here and there keeps her motivation high.  Oh! Not to mention she keeps us supplied in farm grown avocado’s and the best honey you could eat!

Margie Bradbury

Hands-on, solutions focused Management Professional with a career demonstrating visionary leadership, expertise and outstanding performance in business development, client relationships and service delivery.  Acknowledged throughout career for employing clear ideas, standards and integrity to the mix of leadership and decision-making; consistently wins the support of internal and external stakeholders through honesty, trust and persuasive communication.  Outstanding problem-solving abilities and a keen client need assessment aptitude.  Energetic promoter of new ideas and initiatives, and inspired by finding innovative ways and effective methods to deliver business goals and performance targets.

I have worked in the apprenticeship and training space for almost 20 years.  I love it!  I am passionate about all aspect of the sector and am keen to ensure that all who ‘work and play’ in the sector have a positive experience.

The skills, knowledge and experience that one gains through education provides security and empowerment.

For employers, my ability to assist with the future planning and skills needs for their business, through Skill Assessment and Training Analysis, provides a platform for relationship and influence.

Qualifications

• Masters of Business Administration
• Justice of the Peace
• Diploma in HR
• Diploma in Management
• Diploma in Frontline Management
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment

“Everyday is a New Day”!

Grant Rangi

Background & Experience
Grant is an exceptionally skilled civil construction Trainer who is well respected by industry across Australia. Having worked in the Resources industry in Australia and around the world Grant has worked on major projects in Papua New Guinea and New Zealand for Tier-1 firms such as Exxon-Mobil, ERA-Rio Tinto and more.
With a philosophy bedded in the ongoing development of skills, Grant is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the ins and outs of the resources sector. He has spent the past 15 years dedicating his time to helping new and current resource industry workers take their careers to new heights with formalised qualifications. Above all, Grant’s passion is to pass on knowledge and to see students achieve success to the best of their ability.

Qualifications & Competencies
• Certificate IV in Training & Assessment
• Diploma Vocational Education & Training
• Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning)
• Graduate Diploma of Business Administration

LOCAL GOVERNMENT
• Advanced Diploma Local Government (Operational Works)
• Certificate III Local Government (Operational Works)

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION
• Certificate II in Civil Construction
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Specialisation 3 – Pipe Laying)
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Specialisation 1 – Bituminous Surfacing)
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Specialisation 6 – Tunnel Construction)
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Specialisation 4 – Road Construction and Maintenance)
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Specialisation 9 – General)
• Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations
• Certificate III in Civil Foundations
• Certificate III in Trenchless Technology
• Certificate III in Conservation Earthworks
• Certificate IV in Civil Construction (Specialisation – Supervision)
• Certificate IV in Civil Construction (Specialisation – Operations)

• Diploma of Civil Construction Management
• Diploma of Project Management
• Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction
• Advanced Diploma of Project Management

RESOURCE INDUSTRY
• Certificate II in Resources and Infrastructure Work Preparation
• Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations
• Standard 11 Mine Induction – Surface Operations
(RISA* Approved Trainer)

HORTICULTURE

• Certificate II in Horticulture
• Certificate III in Parks and Gardens
• Certificate III in Landscape construction
• Certificate IV in Horticulture

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY

• Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety
• Diploma of Work Health and Safety

OTHER

• Certificate II in Harvesting and Haulage
• Certificate III in Harvesting and Haulage
• Certificate IV in Conservation and Land management
• COVID-19 Safety At Work
• COVID-19 Infection Prevention and Control

Salvatore Contarino

My passion is grounded in a robust mission to make a difference. The culture and mission of FTA provides me the privilege to engage with individuals to seek and deliver ideal outcomes for their career advancement.

My “WHY” reflects a deep desire and determination to impact lives in the most positive way possible. To know that I can influence someone’s life and see them progress and benefit from my advice and support, is the most satisfying achievement I can ask for.

This is the heart and soul of who I am that fuels my motivation. Working with learners at our Success Connect Program, helping them find employment, and enriching their lives as a result, is a totally rewarding experience. I look forward to helping many more people embark on a journey with FTA, to enhance their lives for the better.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Queensland Certificate of Education
• Certificate I in Information, Digital Media and Technology (ICA10111)
• Certificate II in Tourism (SIT20112)

“ Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X

Tasha Maharaj

Focused. Logical. Resourceful. Pragmatic!!!

Over 15 year’s experience working in the Education and Training industry for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) in Brisbane.

I have skills and experience in maintaining compliance and quality assurance system, assisting and participating in internal/external audits, managing the student database management systems to report student training activity (AVETMISS), research new ideas/products for continuous improvement, end of month reports, management of e-learning portals and general IT support.

Originally from the Fiji Islands…I started my career as an Analyst Programmer working for the Fiji National Provident Fund (Superannuation Fund) for 2 years before migrating to Brisbane in July 2001.

Qualifications:

Bachelor of Arts (Information System and Economics)

Experience & Specialities: 

• Database information management systems management
• Regulatory compliance
• Collaboration/teamwork
• Reporting & analytical skills
• Internal/external stakeholder liaison
• Contract management
• Office administration
• LMS management

My goal is to drive a business forward by utilising my multifaceted career experience and background.

“Sic Parvis Magna” – Greatness from small beginnings – Sir Francis Drake

Brett Dale

Be it in front of students, a football or cricket teams, I love to be out there doing what I can to coach and mentor and share my knowledge where I can.  With over 20 years’ experience delivering training in person or virtually around the globe, teaching and coaching are its own rewards for me.  I love to see that moment when the “penny drops” or that “light bulb moment” and I get to see I have made a difference.

As a team leader and manager I’m recognised as someone with a Can Do attitude and I’m driven and passionate about creating the best outcome from each day for myself and my teams.

It’s not all work though, when not working you will find me out camping and enjoying the sights and sounds of our beautiful country.

“If you want to kiss the sky, Better learn how to kneel” – U2 Mysterious Ways

Chloe Contarino

Starting my administration career as a medical receptionist, I found myself wanting to make a bigger impact on people’s lives. I struggled to find an industry best suited for me, but I soon found myself here! FTA has supported me in completing a Certificate lll in Business Administration and now continuing my studies with a Certificate III in Accounts Administration – this is how I KNOW they are the absolute best in the biz!

It’s been both a professional and a personal goal of mine to make everyone’s day great and to help people as best as I can, and knowing that FTA has those same values, I knew this was the best place to be.

Qualifications

• Queensland Certificate of Education
• Cert l Information, Digital Media and Technology
• Cert lll Beauty Services
• Certificate III in Business Administration

“The more that you read, the more things you will know, the more that you learn, the more places you’ll go”. – Dr. Seuss

Kayla Weathers

With 10 years of Civil Construction experience under her belt and 5 years in training and assessment in the VET sectors, Kayla is the industry expert that you want as your go-to professional for all things training.

Kayla values her clients and understands that at times, the training and VET sector can be confusing – so she gives 100% to making sure her clients know and understand what is the most suitable career pathway for them and is always exceeding expectations to achieve the best outcome.  Nothing is too difficult, she is a solution-focused person, who’s passion is everything about achieving the end goal.

Kayla will tell you herself,  she is not here to piss in your pocket and has the ability to encourage and influence individuals at all levels through honesty, and analytical thinking.  When you are passionate about the industry that you are in, the clients that you serve and the values that you hold high – everything is achievable!

Qualifications

• BSB51415 Diploma of Project Management

Rhiannon Millett

I worked as a dental nurse for 6 years and in that time had the opportunity to train other staff members in multiple areas of the dental practise this gave me a great deal of satisfaction knowing I was able to help people gain the skills they needed to excel in their position. I also spent a year and a half in the job active space helping jobseekers find employment by assisting them to gain the skills and tools they need to successfully secure work in a variety of industries. My experience has taught me that you can do anything if you put your mind to it

Qualifications:

Certificate III in business

The greatest thing in this world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving

Andy Gouda

Originally from Sydney and having spent over 16 years in the ICT industry. Andy has carved out a name for himself as a trusted advisor for small and medium businesses across the East Coast of Australia.

He has a wealth of experience in designing solutions and building solid relationships in multiple verticals.

Having run his own business and building sales teams, Andy understands the importance of relevant training for all workplaces. Whether it be for staff or management.

Andy is aware of the skills shortage in this country and is passionate to help get the best out of organisations and its people, to help fill as many gaps as possible.

Gaining foundational experience with large companies like Optus and Telstra, Andy brings a fresh and different dynamic to our team.

At his core, Andy has a passion for helping people and organisations.

And this is his “WHY” for joining the team at Foundation Training Australia.

Qualification

B Commerce

Majoring in Marketing and Human Resource Management

“Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do” – Bruce Lee

Karly McBeath

After being a manager in retail for more than 10 years, I have worked with a large variety of people from all different backgrounds. Throughout my retail career, I was able to grow and develop a large array of abilities to see them succeed both personally and professionally. I have always enjoyed the training and development aspect of managing and love being able to see people develop their skills to take the next step in their career. I am a result driven individual that will always see a task through, believing that dedication will always lead to success. Joining FTA, I am thrilled to be able to make a career out of helping people develop their own

Qualifications:

• Certificate I and II in Business
• Real Estate Registration Certificate

Anything is achievable if you put your mind to it.

Anthony (Tony) Nation

I grew up on Magnetic Island, did my apprenticeship as a carpenter and Joiner, then travelled Australia, and started my own business in the Northern Territory as a builder having employed my own team working in remote communities. Worked as a trainer and assessor in many communities teaching Cert II construction 🏗 .

Over time , I have performed all aspects of construction in all trades and still enjoy learning.

My favourite quote which related to training is “I have cut it 3 times , and it’s still to short.😂. Always measure three times and cut once.”

Daniell Goodin

Daniell stumbled on the field of training and talent development by “happenstance” while working towards gaining currency for his next working adventure in life. Daniell began his trade career when he was 19 as an apprentice and worked his way through to an international business developer and senior manager across multiple businesses. His focus is helping people to improve their workplace and communication skills as well as enhance performance and career development.

“Sometimes I truly think I have been blessed in the pathways that have opened before me as a lot I’ve been involved with in my 30-year career has been related to developing people to bring out the best in themselves and others. I’m committed to my own lifelong learning and to the learning and development of others. For me, leaders are learners and leadership development that creates sustainable results involves helping people squeeze the most learning from their real-world developmental experiences”. – Daniell Goodin

Qualifications

• Certificate IV in Training and Assessing
• Diploma of Training Design and Development
• Diploma of Vocational Education and Training
• Diploma of Building and Construction (Building)
• Advanced Diploma of Building and Construction (Management)

Adam Maller

Adam has been working in construction for 31 years, supervising and manually working across multiple trades. Adam says he was taught the old-fashioned way but embraced everything new. For a period of 15 years over 50% of work for his own construction business was rectification work for the QBCC, this was an eye-opener to the lack of training, knowledge and workmanship throughout the industry.

“Seeing my apprentices after they had previously been put through poor training and theory led me wanting to pass on my knowledge to others. I have trained and coached sporting teams for over 10 years and using that with my studies of training and assessment and my vast experience in the building trades means I can deliver excellent teaching to students”. – Adam Maller

“Do something today that your future self will be thankful for.”

Qualifications

• Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling
• Certificate III in Construction Waterproofing
• Certificate III in Carpentry
• Certificate III in Concreting
• Certificate III in Wall and Ceiling Lining
• Certificate IV in Building and Construction
• Work Safely at Heights
• Business Management for Construction Industry
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment

Brett Adair

Brett has been working in the Civil, Mining, Construction, Transport and Logistics Industries for over 15 years now. Developing a vast range of skills and experience from studying and working hands-on in all sectors. Brett has developed a passion to train people after years of studying himself and now wants to pass on his skills and knowledge to future students.

“I believe I can reach out to students in all aspects of training, which makes me an all-rounder trainer when it comes to teaching and helps the students to pass their qualifications. This is why I’m the right trainer and assessor to cover all your student’s training needs. I’ve been training and assessing over the last few years. I can honestly say I love the process and responsibility of helping and watching students evolve when training under my supervision. I’m an energetic person by nature, which energises the students. I take the time and put in the effort to see all students pass with the skills they need to be better at their job”. – Brett Adair

“It doesn’t matter what your background is and where you are from, if you have dreams and goals that’s all that matters. Train with me and let’s make this happen!”

QUALIFICATIONS

• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Plant Operations)
• Certificate IV in Civil Construction Supervision
• Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations
• Certificate IV in Workplace Health and Safety

Joanne Brooks

Joanne Brooks’ persona is down-to-earth, and her energy is contagious. She has spoken at many events, empowering and educating women and business owners across the country. Jo is a leading specialist in the field of business education, having founded and built her own start-up from zero to $30m in only 18 months.

Among this, her personal story has been likened to a Hollywood screenplay – a story that must be told.

With a career spanning over 20 years in finance and banking, and a further 15 years in education, Joanne has also educated and mentored hundreds of clients in commercial lending, career development and business acumen.

“I love nothing more than the lightbulb moments I share with my clients; knowing I can transform businesses and lives is extremely rewarding.”

Qualifications

• Diploma of Management
• Diploma of Financial Services (Finance Mortgage Broking)
• SOA from CPP40307 Cert IV in Property Services
• Certificate III in Financial Services
• Certificate IV In Business Administration
• Diploma of Project management

Brent Lindner

Brent commenced his building career in Landscaping, Horticulture, Concreting, Carpentry, Painting, Plastering and other areas of the building trades in 2000. He then, in 2007, transitioned from concreting to formwork carpentry working on high rise projects from 4-20 storeys through to residential, commercial and industrial works. Progressing in the building industry to take on roles including, site manager foreman leading roles alongside training and teaching apprentices.

In 2017 Brent focused his attention on Training and Assessment in the construction industry helping students strive to achieve their desired goals and career outcomes.

“Helping one person might not change the world but might change the world for that one person. Your positive action combined with positive thinking results in success”. – Brent Lindner

Qualifications

• Certificate IV in Training and Assessing
• Certificate III in Concreting
• Certificate III in Wall and Ceiling Lining
• Certificate III in Construction Waterproofing
• Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling
• Certificate III in Carpentry

Geoff Chant

Adam Cox

Adam has been in the construction industry since he was 15 years old.  Adam has run his own building company for over 16 years and was trained with fine detail and efficiency in construction.

“I can’t train everyone, but I can certainly change the lives of those that I train and make them the best that they choose to be. This is exactly why I have a passion for training and improving the building industry. From winning awards to federal training committees, I have a wealth of experience as a Builder and a trainer. This is proven by just looking at my hairline”. 😊 – Adam Cox

If a learner is not understanding it one way.  It is my job to help them understand it 20 other ways if needed.  Everyone learns differently, that is the key to understanding your students.

Qualifications

• Certificate III in Carpentry
• Certificate IV in Building and Construction
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment

Ben Curry

The vision has always been to challenge the way individuals and organisations think, act and operate within the training, safety, mining, civil and emergency response industries. The focus is always to enhance knowledge, safety and production through sustainable education, cultural change and positive awareness following an all-inclusive strategically coordinated approach to a stronger and more resilient individual or organisation.

Ben is a highly skilled emergency response & risk management trainer and assessor/consultant with over 12 year’s experience in the Government and private sectors within Australia. Whilst he specialises in emergency response training and assessment, other areas such as safety, civil construction, mining, traffic management and first aid are also industries he delivers on. Bens focus is to ensure adequate planning, coordination and leadership are evident in any of the training conducted as well as demonstrating a strong focus towards delivering practical, innovative and industry-specific training needs that exceed the student or client’s requirements and expectations.

“I am a resilient leader delivering results with RTO compliance, auditing, course development, material improvement and hands-on sales and training. With a solid operational background and a strategic management focus, I have a proven track record to develop and execute effective training and assessment strategies across diverse industries to individuals and teams of all sizes”. – Ben Curry

Qualifications

• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Traffic management)
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Plant Operations)
• Certificate III in Surface Extraction
• Certificate IV in Work, Health and Safety
• Diploma of Work, Health and Safety
• Diploma of Business

Stef Chadwick

I have been a dedicated gardener and horticulturist for over 30 years and a professional trainer for 7 years.  My many clients range from industry workers, high schoolers, career changers, return to work parents and everyone in between. It seems that the field of horticulture has a very broad appeal, which makes for wonderfully diverse classes.

I am passionate about horticulture as well as sustainability and enjoy sharing that passion with others. I aim to work with my students learning and co-creating to encourage confidence and skills that will project them forward with their own horticultural aspirations. I encourage my students to cultivate relationships with one another, apply their newly learned skills, network amongst themselves and use their newly acquired skills in both their workplace and personal lives.

What sums up a quote from Stef regarding her passion for training “Is creating inspirational learning environments and communities, that connect people to the land”

My qualifications include:

• TAE40116 – Certificate IV in Training & Assessment
• AHC50410 Diploma of Horticulture
• AHC30716 Certificate 111 in Horticulture
• AHC31016Certificate 111 in Parks and Gardens
• AHC32816 Certificate 111 in Rural Operations
• AHC30916 Certificate 111 in Landscape Construction

Sean Allman

Sean began his career as a plasterer and labourer across South East QLD and is one of a few originals who are actually born and bred on the Gold Coast. After working 8 years in sales and marketing, Sean decided on a career change, moving into mining around 2008 and never looked back.

“I pride myself in safety, honesty and ensuring I enjoy each day and try to make the most of what life opportunities throw at me. I continue to learn and ensure I practice what I preach. I became a TAE trainer in 2012 and have never looked back. You will find as a trainer, I like to interact with my students and fellow colleagues as often as I can. I remain positive and would consider myself a safe educator & leader. Always learning, teaching & sharing my knowledge, within the safety, civil, mining, traffic & training industry. I believe your mindset & willingness, is key to a safe & productive work environment”. – Sean Allman

Qualifications

• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Traffic Management)
• Certificate III in Civil Construction (Plant Operations)
• Certificate IV in Workplace Health and Safety
• Plus, multiple machinery SOA and Industry Short Courses

John Scott

Craig Stuart

Crispin Arnison

Crispin has gained a wealth of experience from more than 30 years of experience in the landscape, Parks and gardens, Project Management and WHS fields.
His exposure to the many facets of the industries has allowed him to acquire and develop a uniquely broad skill set. Crispin thrives at the opportunity to share his highly developed skills to train and develop the next crop of talent.
Crispin’s career has followed a natural progression from apprentice, landscape assistant, Foreman, business owner, construction manager to trainer.
Crispin has been involved in many key projects in his 30-year construction career including many award-winning projects along the Eastern seaboard.
Crispin’s current role as a Trainer/Assessor allows him the opportunity to communicate with clients and students to achieve a positive result educating, mentoring and imparting off knowledge and experience.

“A plant needs roots in order to grow. With man it is the other way around:
only when he grows does he have roots and feels at home in the world.”
— Eric Hoffer

Qualifications

• Certificate IV Landscape trade certificate
• Certificate IV In Project management
• Certificate IV Frontline Management
• Certificate IV Occupational Health and safety
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment TAE

Russell Zabel

Even as a child, I was passionate about these busy little insects. That was over 50 years ago. My first encounter was when my father caught a swarm of honeybees in a chaff bag, brought them home and shook the bees into a second-hand box. My enthusiasm rapidly grew. With the help of my father, I spent every opportunity available to grow my colony numbers. I owned 40 colonies of honeybees before I could drive. By age 19, I owned nearly 100 colonies of honeybees. After starting carpentry in 1974, I became a TAFE building teacher in 1984. I have a bachelor’s degree in Education and Building Surveying. After leaving TAFE in 2013, I have devoted my entire work time to the bee business. I currently employ 2 workers to assist me in my growing beekeeping business. I have lived and worked in remote locations helping the local aborigines understand native bees. I currently manage 1000 colonies of Native bees as well as 250 colonies of honeybees. It’s all about bees!!!

I love interacting with customers and clients about bees. I believe I am a great educator and enjoy passing on my extensive knowledge of bees.

Qualifications

• Bachelors of Education
• Diploma of Teaching
• Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training
• Certificate III in Beekeeping
• Bachelor of Building Surveying
• Diploma of Building
• Associate Diploma of Applied Science (Building)
• Certificate IV in Building
• Certificate in Building Technician
• Certificate in Carpentry and Joinery

Troy Mills

Troy has been working in the construction industry since he left high school. Working across a range of sites, from small residential to large commercial and council projects, has given him solid and wide-ranging experience across a variety of sites, skills and tasks.

Working as a foreman gave Troy the thirst to branch out and take his career to the next level by opening his own construction business in 2007. He grew his team to operate out of multiple locations across Queensland.

In 2016 Troy decided it was time to pass his wealth of knowledge and experience on to others by becoming a qualified Trainer Assessor.

Troy now dedicates his time to helping new and current workers in the industry take their knowledge, skills and experiences to new heights with formalised qualifications.

Having worked in the construction and horticulture industry my entire working life I am now looking to the future, pursuing new and exciting opportunities where I can give back and share what

I know about the trade I love through training and educating newcomers to the industry.”