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Contributing to the success of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, City of Greater Geelong Turf Management and Horticulture apprentices were selected to work alongside world-renowned AAMI Park turf specialists to prepare the playing surfaces for the tournament.

The apprenticeship program, in collaboration with gforce employment + recruitment aimed to provide hands-on learning and training for the next generation of turf management professionals.

The six apprentices had the privilege of honing their skills under the guidance of experts responsible for maintaining one of the most well-known football fields in Australia.

The apprentices were an integral part of the pre-tournament preparations, including turf installation, maintenance, and ensuring the pitch was in optimal condition for the world-class athletes.

The gforce apprenticeship program provides early-career pathways through on-the-job work, training and support, education, and nationally-recognised accreditation.

The City have partnered with gforce for more than ten years delivering opportunities for almost 100 young people in our community.

The group apprentices have demonstrated both a passion for turf management and a commitment to excellence. They participated in an intensive training program to complement their hands-on experience, covering various aspects of turf science, equipment operation, and turf care best practices.

In addition to contributing to the success of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, this initiative also highlighted the importance of creating a sustainable future for sports field management. The apprentices were exposed to cutting-edge practices in turf maintenance, focused on environmental sustainability and responsible water usage.

City of Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan shared “by working alongside the best in the industry, these apprentices will have acquired skills and expertise that cannot be taught in a classroom, preparing them for successful careers in turf management and horticulture.

“We’re looking forward to them bringing this unique knowledge back to Geelong where they can implement what they have learned into their day-to-day roles, maintaining sporting fields and reserves for the benefit of the community.

Jack Lenan - Third year parks and gardens apprentice enthused “it was exciting to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. I found the overall management and organisation of a world standard event to be so impressive.

Byron McAdam - Second year turf management apprentice added “as a passionate sports person, it was a privilege to work at the World Cup and support the team. It was a step outside of the comfort zone but has helped us progress in our field of turf management immensely.”

Keith Baillie - gforce Chief Executive also shared “we're incredibly proud to support apprentices and trainees throughout their training and employment, working in close partnership with City of Greater Geelong.

“This initiative is an example of how local collaborations can benefit our apprentices and trainees.

“This is part of our commitment to help people achieve the benefits of employment.”

Image. (Back L-R) Jack Lenan, Zac Vincent, Ryan Holden, Byron McAdam. Front Riley Shapter. Credit: City of Greater Geelong

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