Community-Led Training Builds Practical Skills in Koonibba 

When participants and community members in Koonibba identified chainsaw operation and maintenance as a useful skill, EyrePlus worked with the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation (KCAC) and TAFE SA to bring accredited training directly into the community. 

The training responded to a practical need raised through local consultation, with chainsaw skills relevant to work including land management, environmental works, community maintenance, and infrastructure projects. 

Delivering the course in Koonibba also meant participants could complete the training without needing to travel away from the community. 

From community feedback to practical training 

In May 2026, seven participants successfully completed the Chainsaw Operations and Maintenance Training course with TAFE SA trainer David Cunningham, supported by EyrePlus staff Emily Schrader and Garry Masters. 

The course covered workplace health and safety requirements, safe handling techniques, hazard identification, and the correct operation of chainsaw equipment. 

Participants also learned how to carry out routine maintenance and servicing, helping them understand how to keep equipment safe and in good working condition. 

Hands-on training formed an important part of the course, giving participants the opportunity to put these skills into practice in a supervised setting and become more confident operating and maintaining chainsaws safely. 

Feedback following the course was very positive, with participants reporting a stronger understanding of the equipment and the safety requirements involved. 

Applying the skills beyond the course 

The skills gained through the training can be applied across a range of employment and community projects where chainsaw operation and maintenance form part of the work. 

The course also reflects the community-led approach behind activities delivered through RAES, with local consultation helping shape the training and support offered to participants. 

For EyrePlus, responding to those local priorities is an important part of creating training opportunities that are accessible, practical, and connected to the needs of each community. 

By working alongside participants, community organisations, and training providers, EyrePlus can help turn identified local needs into opportunities for people to build skills that support future employment and contribute to projects within their communities.