There has never been a better time to keep your qualifications up to date.

As we approach Christmas and the long summer break, I would like to thank all of you who have recently offered feedback regarding the qualification and job role update project that AgriFood Skills is currently undertaking. As a member of its advisory panel it is essential that we continue to receive industry opinion and it enables us to pass this on to our skills council.

Within the current WHS legislation there is a general obligation for persons in the workplace to act with diligence, which is a pretty open-ended term. It places obligations on everyone while they are at work, including employers, the self- employed and employees, with the general requirement to carry out their duties as responsible operators. It is also a requirement that all workers are trained in their roles and deemed competent and current in their required skills.

Hello all,

I trust work is still aplenty and I must say by now as I write this the winter weather is finally over spring has sprung –
the sound of revving chainsaws is echoing all around and here we go into the summer heat.

Firstly, thanks to Garry Small P/T Teacher NSW TAFE who noticed an error with one of the diagrams in my previous article on page 11. Figure 1 depicted pruning cuts and branch collars that when transposed would lead to disastrous results for anyone using the article as a guide for pruning. I have enclosed clearer detailed pictures with this article to clear up any doubts – I endeavour to ensure diagrams associated with future issues are correct.

Hello all,

I trust work is still aplenty and I must say I am totally over the winter weather and look forward to the summer heat!

Well to follow on from the basics and maintenance issues regarding powered pole saws covered in the last issue, this month’s article continues to discuss pole saw operating techniques and branch removal.

One thing I have noticed on an increasingly alarming basis is the apparent lack of respect and maintenance of these machines. They all too often appear dirty with illegible warning stickers and a poorly maintained bar and chain.

Take advantage of events, training and courses to stay up-to-date on the ever-changing arboriculture industry.

By the time you read this there will be a new Asia Pacific tree climbing champion and the Queensland state climbing competition will be happening on August 23-24. These events along with Arborcamp, which in QLD will celebrate its tenth birthday this year, and others held by all the various Australian arboriculture associations help advance industry awareness. All these events should be noted on the calendar as essential professional development by anyone involved in the industry.

There seems to be a myth that these events are only for climbing competitors. While they do allow climbers of all skill levels the chance to compete, these events are about showcasing innovative climbing skills and promoting safe practice within our industry, particularly at the Arborcamp which is attended by sponsors who demonstrate and sell climbing gear machinery and equipment.