CERT commenced operations in 2003 and its primary function is to provide responsive, flexible, innovative and cost effective training solution to the Australian Rail Industry.
Nationally CERT employs in excess of thirty-five trainers and assessors with either a safety or rail background, and in most cases both. Our business commenced and remains a national business with local teams consisting of highly skilled and experienced training Deliverer’s, Administrators and Managers who are able to transfer those skills and services to the international rail training market.
CERT has offices and trainers that are strategically placed nationally, and in all mainland states, to ensure compliant, responsive and cost effective service to national clients. CERT has the ability to mobilise both personnel and business processes nationally as required.
All CERT trainers have a minimum of ten year’s rail experience (most have in excess of twenty years) and two years training experience. Trainers have recent and ongoing experience in the delivery of rail infrastructure, rail operations and/or rail safeworking training and assessment.
All CERT Trainers hold the relevant and current Certificate IV Training and Assessing qualification, many hold Certificate III Rail Infrastructure and/or Certificate III in Rail Operations as well as other relevant vocational qualifications. All CERT Trainers are skilled and experienced in dealing with students with language, literacy and numeracy issues and are adept at tailoring learning to the needs of the student.
CERT Managers, Trainers, Compliance and Administrative staff have ongoing experience in the coordination of national and international training requirements. With continual interaction with major rail operators, skills councils and contracting companies, CERT has gained the experience and the ability to perform holistic training and assessment processes. We have the ability to ensure rail safety workers (RSW) are provided with training that has been customised and clustered to provide results that embed client’s culture whilst providing comprehensive but efficient service
CERT continually professionally develops its Trainers to ensure that their skills are diverse and current to ensure flexibility to the client and portability of skills across a range of industry qualifications.
All outcomes delivered by CERT comply with state and national rail safety legislation. The Australian Qualifications Framework provides a robust and transferable structure that will ensure compliance, consistency and contextualised learning outcomes delivered by CERT’s experienced rail training professionals with proven and ongoing results in all facets of rail vocational education.
CERT was formed in Western Australia (WA) and is accredited through Training Accreditation Council (TAC) Western Australia with approval to deliver nationally accredited training in WA and in all states.
CERT ventured into New South Wales.
CERT was acquired by the Coote Industrial Ltd group, an ASX listed company.
CERT expanded into Queensland, Victoria and the Northern Territory.
CERT successfully underwent the re-accreditation process by the TAC WA to continue the delivery of Nationally Accredited Training for a further period of 5 years.
CERT’s parent company is restructured and rebranded as Engenco Ltd, an ASX listed company. CERT is now delivering rail training, assessment and consultancy services in WA, NSW, SA, NT, QLD and VIC.
Fully functioning training facilities now maintained by CERT in Sydney, Newcastle, WA, Melbourne, with trainers located and providing services in all mainland states of Australia, including many rural, regional and remote locations.
CERT’s RTO registration was transferred to the new National Regulator Australian Quality Skills Authority (ASQA).
CERT expanded it’s physical presence in Western Australia by opening an office in the Pilbara. This growth supported CERT’s expansion in to high risk training.
Following strong demand in Victoria, CERT opens a training centre at Ballarat Train Station.
CERT relocates it’s Newcastle office from Beresfield to a purpose built facility in Thornton.
Since the beginning of CERT over a decade ago, our organisation has prided ourselves on being able to meet our key client focused values of:
- Responsiveness: Being able to meet the needs of our clients to achieve their goals when they need us.
- Flexibility: Being able to tailor programs and services to still achieve our national requirements but still meet the specific needs of our clients. The ability to provide a service wherever and whenever required.
- Innovate: CERT continually strives to become to be the leader in Rail Training but also to develop systems, methods and approaches to our programs that are innovative, reducing time and/or continually improving on our student’s learning and assessment experiences. By leading in innovation with technological advances CERT believes we can add valuable services to the rail industry.
- Cost Effectiveness: Our programs are priced accordingly to the format of each program and our clients receive the quality of services for which they pay. CERT has trainers and offices strategically place nationally to ensure resources are conveniently situated to clients sites and their operations saving on mobilisation and logistical costs.
In addition to the above values that have historically been the identity of our organisation, we have added the following values which we believe are crucial to our identity and the services which we supply:
- Compliance: CERT at all times ensures that our systems are compliant and rigorously monitored to ensure our responsibilities as a RTO are upheld in addition to our services as a provider to the Rail Industry.
- Quality: All CERT programs and processes are benchmarked not only to the highest of national and international standards.
Mark is the National Manager for the Centre of Excellence in Rail Training. Mark has presided over a significant growth in CERT’s operations and is commited to providing quality staff and systems. He has been able to establish professional, committed and flexible training team which has been designed to meet the needs of industry.
Mark has excellent organisational and planning skills which have been developed throughout his working life in industries including traineeships and apprenticeships, vocational training experience and as an education officer with both government and non-governmental organisations.
Since 2006 Mark has been the National Manager of CERT and has implemented compliant, responsive, flexible and innovative training teams and processes nationally to support Rail Safety Worker Competence projects in all states of Australia. Furthermore he has established rail and vocational training methodologies in a number of other countries.
Mark is conversant with the National Rail Safety legislation with a knowledge of how they pertain to worker competence. He also has a thorough knowledge of state and federal based funding models to support training.
He has established and maintained quality systems in training for clients including but not limited to ARTC, Lendlease, Thiess, Laing O’Rourke, Fluor Rail Services, Abi Group, Queensland Rail, Aurizon, Public Transport Authority of WA, Roy Hill, FMG, Samsung, John Holland Group, RailCorp, CFCLA and Rhomberg Rail.
Jenny McFarlane has been involved in the VET sector for over 15 years with extensive experience in compliance with the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) (2015) and the Australian Qualifications Framework taking at least five RTOs successfully through ASQA audits. Jenny also has expertise in the general management of RTOs with experience in contract management and tender submission and development, human resource management and finance.
Jenny is a well-respected practitioner within the Australian VET Sector with extensive experience in program development, design, validation and delivery including Certificate IV – Training and Assessment; Certificate IV – Project Management and Diploma of Project Management.
Jenny has vast involvement in the interpretation and implementation of legislation and regulatory requirements in the VET, Emergency Services, Mining and Rail sectors.
Jenny has significant skills in the implementation and administration of student management systems holding a relevant Bachelor of Science degree with programming and software development experience.
Sean Choat has worked in the Queensland Vocational Education and Training Sector for more than ten years, having worked for many years in the training and regulatory arms of the Queensland Government and as a National RTO and VET Manager for QR Limited.
Sean’s experience has involved all elements within a RTO which is inclusive of administration, accounts, compliance, tendering, auditing, funding, business development, strategic planning, risk mitigation, ethics and human resources. Throughout his many years in the VET sector Sean has developed vast networks and gained practical experience in delivery, development, and corporate governance functions as they relate to the provision of quality training and meeting national regulatory requirements.
Sean has also served as a member of the Queensland Legislative Assembly, providing an in-depth understanding of corporate and government relations, operation of government, and implications for industry.
Having worked in both the regulatory and operational sides of the VET sector, Sean brings to the team a focus on continuous improvement and quality based on practical experience and achievement.
Graham offers over 25 years in learning and development and specifically 13 years managing a training system and people in a fast-paced and complex environment. Graham has an extensive knowledge and understanding (including all legislative/statutory standards & requirements and Registered Training Organisation requirements) of learning and development and the Australian resources sector.
In his role at Rio Tinto, Graham lead a team of 32 people located across 4 key operational sites. This role required the provision of rail training solutions to all sectors of the rail division (comprising of approximately 1600 employees and contractors working in the key areas of Rail Operations, Rail Maintenance, Rail Engineering, Rail Technology and Innovation and Rail Services). This involved the establishment and development of a flexible and sustainable rail training structure supported with the required skills, equipment and processes to meet business needs and capability requirements.
In Graham’s role as a training advisor he was directly responsible for the promotion, delivery and execution of standardised training and assessment systems and processes. This also included the promotion, monitoring and auditing of training and assessment policy and related guidelines.
During his employment at Pilbara Iron Graham was accountable for the delivery of all HSE and vocational training to employees and contractors as well as continuously reviewing and developing the HSE and vocational training and assessment material.
Maddie has widespread knowledge and experience of the rail training industry within Australia. Throughout her eight years in the Rail Industry, she has gained a comprehensive understanding of not only the NSW Rail Network but also various Networks across Australia.
Maddie prides herself on her outstanding knowledge of network training requirements and providing VET compliant, innovative and flexible training to CERT’s clients. Throughout her time at CERT, Maddie has carried out numerous Training Needs Analysis’s for our clients and coordinated thousands of quality and cost-effective training courses.
Peter is the South Australian State Training Manager for the Centre for Excellence in Rail Training (CERT). Peter joined CERT in 2011 starting as a Trainer and Assessor.
Peter has great knowledge and understanding of the South Australian Safeworking rules and other worker competencies required for our clients, whether it be for major network owners or government funded training programs.
Peter has a strong work ethic and facilitates strong client relationships to ensure that the best professional service is provided.
With a 24 year background in rail, he began his career in 1996 with V/Line progressing through roles to become a signaller and shunter before completing a traineeship to become a locomotive driver working from Melbourne across the Victorian network. It was during this time he was appointed as an On Job Trainer and passed his knowledge onto Trainee Drivers.
In 2008 he accepted a role with Rio Tinto in North West Australia operating some of the largest heavy haul trains in the world. His role evolved over the next few years before being appointed Training Advisor of the Rail Division in 2011 working closely with the leadership groups within the Rail Operations, Mines and Project teams. In 2014 he moved back into mainline rail operations, where he worked in numerous leadership and project roles, finishing his career as mainline operations supervisor in September 2019.
Since recently joining CERT, he has already engaged the Victorian team and will lead them to grow the business in a sustainable and compliant manner.
Mark has 18 years’ experience in the rail industry with 30 years’ experience as a professional trainer accredited with the Centre for Excellence in Rail Training. Mark has been a manager and trainer assessor in the construction, road, mining industries rail environments and collectively brings over 30 years’ experience in multi-disciplined areas of construction and transport and rail infrastructure projects.
Mark has worked extensively as a plant operator, manager, facilitator and a mentor for many projects and team development programmes. Mark also has extensive experience in Safeworking areas such as Train Track Safety Awareness (onsite) and safe work practices and Handsignalling Levels 1 & 2. main line operations, TFPC train order territory, Look out, Absolute signal blocking, working as a special class signalman, at Newport, North Melbourne, Sunshine and operated in Metro. Mark has also been involved in setting up site specific safe working for projects such as the overhead replacement in Flinders street station and PETOS and train order working.
Mark has also worked on track labouring and as an operator of plant machines including Hi-Rail, excavators, front end loaders, and hand tools
In his time with CERT, Jeff has worked nationally delivering qualifications in rail operations (driving) and works with CERTs Quality Department to develop and deliver train driving and shunting qualifications. Jeff excels at working with the client to deliver training using the latest technology to ensure minimal interruption to operations.
During Jeff’s employment with Aurizon Coal NSW he worked as the Lead Validator, mapping the current workplace assessments against the nationally recognised TLI40410 (Cert IV in Transport and Logistics – Rail Operations) and completing all modifications required to align to the nationally recognised qualification. In this role Jeff monitored and recorded the feedback and comments from the validation team as well as ensuring all required documents (from a RTO perspective) were created, including marking guides, mapping of current trainers and assessors currency and storage of the validation recordings.
As a Tutor Driver Jeff was involved with training persons from a variety of backgrounds and levels of experience. During Jeff’s four years within this position, his skills in mentoring and coaching were developed to a high professional level. Jeff also had the opportunity to deliver training via an online learning environment, for both individuals and groups.
As a Train Driver Jeff has had extensive experience working with all cargo types; coal, grain, freight (including dangerous goods) and passenger trains. As well as comprehensive experience in shunting, testing of trains, manual handling, fatigue management, ATP and DP systems, Hazard Identification and Risk Management, Rail terminology, utilising various communication and safeworking systems.
Richard Clark has had more than 15 years’ experience in the mining, process plant and rail operations safety and training industries. He is experienced and confident in training and rail safety management and has a strong track record in project management, the Australian Qualifications Framework and nationally accredited training packages (in particular Rail Operations).
For the last five years Richard has been working at Rio Tinto and in this role has had extensive experience in designing Training and Assessment strategies to comply and align with the business’ vision. Richard played a key role in the tactical implementation of strategies and rail safety plans, and the development of a new Rule Book. Richard has represented Rio Tinto at the National Transport and Logistics Industry Skills Council forums for the development of National Qualifications and has also played a crucial role internally at Rio Tinto, mentoring officers and advising the business on training and assessment practices and strategies.
Since 2003, Richard spent time as a Trainer Assessor at Skilled Group, then to a Senior Technical Training Coordinator at Australian Railroad Group. In this role Richard was responsible for the training of operational rail staff in WA, QLD and NSW as well as developing corporate and role specific training needs analysis to meet RTO, business and individual needs. Richard is also trained to lead ICAM investigations and conduct audits.
Richard has excellent safeworking knowledge and experience on many networks in WA. He is currently compliant with all aspects of rail safety legislation
Ross Jackson can demonstrate over 10 years work history in development, implementation and management of Rail Safety, including emergency management, on and off site. His positions have been diverse and have resulted in a sound knowledge, competency and experience in several rail systems.
Ross has held senior Operations, Rail Safety, Safeworking and Training positions within the companies he has worked with. Ross is an experienced professional trainer accredited to train and assess in all areas that the ARTC operates under in regard to Safeworking. Ross has also taken part in
the Consolidated National Rule Book, Risk assessments, Safeworking briefs and aided the ARTC in areas of training development, rule changes and investigations.
Ross’s expertise has also been used to develop and implement strategic working plans for major possessions and also large yard working projects within the NSW Network. Ross is also a Qualified Second person who enjoys working on the footplate when he gets a chance.
Ross is currently working closely with Rail Operators including but not limited to ARTC, Metro Trains Melbourne, Queensland Rail, GWA and Kenya Rail Corporation, Transport Heritage NSW on the development and implementation of safeworking rules, procedures and courseware. He is conversant with state based and national rail safety legislation as it pertains to safeworking and rail safety.
Jason has 14 years’ experience working in the Rail Industry. Jason started his career as a track worker learning all aspects of track work prior to becoming a track protection officer and prior to joining CERT was the Regional Rail Safety Advisor for NSW with Transfield Rail Services looking after the rail corridor from Cootamundra to Broken Hill. Jason’s responsibilities included safeworking training, inductions, worksite protection audits, drug and alcohol testing and involvement in rail safety investigations.
Jason has extensive experience in safeworking areas such as National Track Safety Awareness, Handsignalling Levels 2, Protection Officer Level 4, Safeworking Level 1, Track Vehicle Operation and Track Machine Operation. Jason has also had specialised training in track assessment/certification (52/53) and holds the equivalent safeworking qualifications for Queensland Rail Network.
Jason left CERT in 2018 to take up a role in rail labour provision for the track construction and maintenance sub-sector. During this time he built experience in project resourcing. Jason returned to CERT in 2019 to his role as a National Rail Infrastructure Trainer Assessor and travels nationally to deliver training in this area.
Allen Holden is an experienced Workplace Trainer / Assessor, specialising in Rail Infrastructure qualifications. Allen has a vast background in the Rail industry as well as being the holder of a variety of WorkCover Certificates such as Slewing Mobile Crane up to 20 Tons, Boom Type Elevated Work Platform, Forklift Truck, Front End Loader, Backhoe and Excavator with years of experience in their safe operation and has also held a Heavy Vehicle Driver’s License.
Allen is experienced in the Rail Industry and holds many current qualifications such as Protection Officer Level 1-4, Handsignalling level 1 & 2, Track Vehicle Operation, Track
Machine Operation, Track Examination, Adjust Rails, Wirefeed Welding, THERMIT Welding – SKVF, SKVF-Elite, SMWF & Widegap, RAILTECH Welding PLK-CJ and Certificate III in Rail Infrastructure.
Besides the satisfaction Allen gets out of being able to train people that would like to work in the Rail Industry, he loves to spend quality time with his family as well as boating, fishing and riding motorcycles.
Craig Ramstadius is an experienced professional trainer accredited with the Centre for Excellence in Rail Training. Craig has been a Construction manager both in the construction industry and rail environments and collectively brings over 25 years’ experience in multi-disciplined areas of construction and transport infrastructure projects. Craig has worked indirectly with the TAFE education system for over 12 years as a facilitator a mentor for many community projects and team development programmes. Craig’s dedication to team development has taken him across the world to assist in competitive team performance. Craig will provide sound understanding and expertise in all facets of rail infrastructure specialising in team development for the resurfacing sector of rail. Craig has a thorough knowledge of contractor development and growth.
Craig also has extensive experience in Safeworking areas such as Rail Industry Safety Induction, worksite safety induction (onsite) and safe work practices and PO 1, 2,3 and Hand signalling Levels 1 & 2. Track resurfacing experience, supervisory, survey, truck and hiab qualifications.
Prior to working at CERT Brian worked for Queensland Rail for 35 years, commencing as a Concrete Mixer and Packer. He later progressed through Track Working to Machine Operating and finally in the Workplace Health and Safety environment. Brian qualified as a Protection Officer and became a Workplace Health and Safety Officer.
Brian transferred to the Safety Section of Queensland Rail where he completed Investigations and Audit Courses and attained a Workplace Health and Safety Diploma in addition to his Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Brian traveled throughout Queensland conducting Safety Audits on depots and worksites as well as investigations involving worksite incidents and accidents.
Brian’s experiences with Queensland Rail included learning track work whilst employed as a Fettler and Flying Gang Labourer; Track Machine Operator; Lookout Duties; Protection Officer (PO2); Handsignaller Duties; Safety Officer; and Workplace Trainer.
Brian was also involved in the High Performance Coach program conducted by Queensland Rail before joining CERT
Phillip has a successful history of linking operational efficiencies, customer service, and solid leadership to drive process improvements, increase staff satisfaction levels, and quickly respond to emerging situations specifically in the rail industry.
Well-versed in using complex systems to manage processes and workflow and cultivated partnerships with clients. Phillip has proven ability in providing training and motivating teams while identifying areas of systemic and performance-related improvements. He possesses superior interpersonal and conflict management skills with a flair for increasing organisational cohesiveness, productivity and profitability through recruitment, talent assessment, and employee engagement.
During his career in the rail industry, Phillip has worked in both management and operational roles in private and public sector rail transport operation and associated entities. He has experience on rail infrastructure construction and maintenance, safeworking and resource management.
Phil has particular experience in resource management for rail construction and maintenance projects and in motivating and managing staff, training needs analysis, delivery and conducting assessment.
Dallas has 35 years’ experience in the Rail Industry and the Queensland Rail network. He has 16 years’ experience as a Trainer and Assessor, his area of expertise being Safeworking, Rail Infrastructure and Warehousing.
In addition to his work as a Trainer and Assessor, Dallas also worked as an auditor under the QR Limited Workforce Support Scheme verifying training and assessment practice, inducting new training personnel and undertaking various quality checks.
During his time with CERT, Dallas has trained Safely Access the Rail Corridor and Fatigue Management programs as well as higher level Protection Officer courses and the TLI21315 Qualification.
Dallas is located in South East Queensland and travels regularly around Queensland to provide vocational education and training services to industry. Dallas has developed courseware including training manuals, assessments and other training materials and undertaken validation activities to verify the currency of materials to industry standards.
Michael has vast experience working as a locomotive driver for approximately 41 years and as a Train Operations Inspector for Queensland Rail for his final eleven years of that time. Michael has extensive knowledge of rollingstock operations, maintenance and componentry, rail investigations and assessing issues within the rail corridor such as locomotive derailments and defects.
As part of his role as a locomotive driver, Michael has vast knowledge of the Queensland Rail and Aurizon network requirements and their broad application for train handling, application of route knowledge, signalling and train control.
During his time with CERT, Michael has trained various rail accreditation and safety programs as well as enterprise-specific training programs. Michael has been part of the CERT team working with Bombardier Transportation Australia to provide training to their personnel in the field of train operations and safety within their defined limits.
Michael is located in South East Queensland and travels regularly around Queensland to provide vocational education and training services to the rail industry.
Llewellyn has over 43 years’ experience in the Rail Industry and the Queensland Rail Network. Llewellyn has extensive knowledge and experience driving locomotives as well as managing and leading work teams. Llewellyn’s area of expertise as a CERT Trainer/Assessor is Train Operations and Safety.
In addition to his work as a Trainer and Assessor, Llewellyn was involved in the development of tutor driver up-skilling courses and conducted coaching and mentoring sessions for Queensland Rail Supervisors to up-skill their qualifications as part of his role as a superintendent.
During his time with CERT, Llewellyn has trained Safely Access the Rail Corridor and Fatigue Management programs as well as Working Safely in the Construction Industry (White Card) and Aurizon Safeworking Driver courses. Llewellyn is located in Central Queensland and travels regularly around Queensland to provide vocational education and training services to industry. Llewellyn has provided assistance developing courseware including training manuals, assessments and other training materials.
Wayne has 22 years’ experience working as a Rail Infrastructure Maintainer for QR Limited/Aurizon. During that time he had a significant period with responsibility for safeworking compliance, coordination and operations.
Wayne is very experienced in track construction, maintenance and examination with involvement in track machine operations. Wayne is also experienced with work-based and formal training and assessment. His role with Aurizon required him to deliver training to a wide variety of workers in various locations in and outside of the network.
Since joining CERT Wayne has participated in courseware development review, moderation and validation, with his vocational currency highly effective with ensuring materials reflect current industry practice.
Wayne has recently delivered training and assessment in Rail infrastructure under State-funded programs for long-term unemployed indigenous students which have been highly acclaimed by students, sponsors and organising agencies. Wayne’s latest graduating cohort gained 100% employment rate in rail infrastructure work in the Central Queensland region.
Jason has over 15 years’ experience in the Rail Industry and the Queensland Rail network. He has over 10 years’ experience as a Trainer and Assessor, his area of expertise being Safety. In addition to his work as a Trainer and Assessor, Jason also worked as a High Performance Safety Coach in QR National developing and facilitating innovative and engaging safety training for rail corridor workers and management to create attitude and behaviour changes and improve individual safety performance.
During his time with CERT, Jason has trained Safely Access the Rail Corridor and Fatigue Management programs. Jason is located in Brisbane and travels regularly around South East Queensland to provide vocational education and training services to industry. Jason has developed courseware including training manuals, assessments and other training materials and undertaken validation activities to verify the currency of materials to industry standards.
Les is a highly qualified and experienced Trainer Assessor with an extensive background in both Training and Assessment and rail infrastructure capability. Les has over 36 years’ experience in the rail, mining and construction sectors.
Les has a range of expertise in technical applications under rail construction and maintenance projects having worked as a Track Infrastructure Maintainer in various capacities in addition to providing work-based and formal training to workers in numerous construction and maintenance callings with emphasis on technical skills and safeworking application.
Les has worked in a number of training-based organisations and rail operator training departments where he has imparted his advanced knowledge and skills to workers and students with varied experience.
Les has skill in personnel management and motivation of workers and students, always gaining full participation in the learning and work environments. Since joining CERT Les has participated in courseware development review, moderation and validation, with his vocational currency highly effective with ensuring materials reflect current industry practice.
George has worked in the rail industry since 1976 making 43 years since he first joined Queensland Rail. During this period George has experienced a wide range of changes in the rail industry whilst operating in a vast number of roles. Georges experience has provided him with vast knowledge and skills in safeworking and general rail operations including shunting working as a guard and tutor guard and in training roles.
George held a number of training-based roles in Queensland Rail for many years, providing him with a keen understanding of training expectations and preferred processes in rail-based training and assessment in Queensland.
Whilst working in training co-ordination roles in Queensland Rail, George was responsible for managing training resources and schedules to ensure business commitments were met whilst having required trainers, facilities and materials available at the required program.
Prior to working at CERT Darryl worked for Queensland Rail for over 35 years in operational roles including Fireman, Driver and Tutor Driver working in regional and urban areas throughout Queensland. After completing his initial qualification as a Trainer/Assessor, Darryl was one of the two Trainers based in Gladstone that developed training packages for new rollingstock, policies and procedures and safeworking in addition to conducting classroom and on-track training and assessment.
Later Darryl further developed his training skills and knowledge by completing an Associate Degree in Further Education and Training.
From 2001-2010 Darryl was the Traincrew Supervisor and Crew and Yard Supervisor for QR National based at Callemondah. This was a broad role that included budgeting, staff planning, workplace health and safety, process improvements (including staff and productivity reviews), investigations into safeworking breaches and staff development.
After leaving QR National Darryl undertook further studies and obtained a Masters of Management Degree (Human Resources) and other studies to further develop his frontline management skills.
Managing large bulk commodity rail logistics tasks for a number of the current Pilbara Iron Ore operations has provided the basis for his expertise. Planning and execution of logistics outcomes to balance mines, rail and port requirements whilst maximising system throughput, and maintaining close control of costs are key to system performance. This performance can only be achieved through close consultation and negotiation with all stakeholders both internal and external ensuring strong communications and smooth transitions where change is a requirement.
Lindsay’s career with Rio Tinto provided the grounding in a number of disciplines (particularly in the areas of Rail Operations and Train Control), after which he moved to National Rail as the Operations Manager for the WA Goldfields and later the Operations Manager for Sydney NSW. Lindsay returned to Heavy Haul rail with Robe where he managed both their railroad operations and track maintenance teams. Lindsay then moved on to BHP Iron Ore.
Heading BHP Billiton’s Iron Ore Railway Operations provided the opportunity to manage a number of challenges including personnel with a long history of high industrial activity. Being able to refocus the team and return discipline to the operation whilst reducing exaggerated consumable costs proved both satisfying and rewarding.
Lindsay changed direction with a spell as a lecturer with Curtin University Kalgoorlie Campus, after which Lindsay moved onto the start-up of Pacific National Queensland. Leading the North Queensland elements of this project including planning and construction of three new intermodal terminals and associated maintenance facilities. Recruiting and start-up of operations for the region were also part of his role. Lindsay then returned to WA as General Manager for South Spur Rail Services / Southern & Silverton. Lindsay responsibilities included, line haul operations and maintenance in NSW, SA, Vic and WA catering for bulk commodity contracts and specialised rail maintenance trains.
Lindsay moved to Manager Operations Development for his second term with BHP – this time in Asset Development RGP5 project. His team is tasked with ensuring all rail operational readiness requirements were met. This project was completed in August of 2011.Lindsay changed direction again becoming the General Manager – Operations for the Mid-West Ports Authority responsible for all land based and marine operations inclusive of all port infrastructure, plant & equipment. Covering general maintenance and asset management. Lindsay has been the change agent for introduction and embedding of major changes to port functions.
Paul Johnson is an experienced professional trainer and assessor accredited with the Centre for Excellence in Rail Training. A proactive achiever with a proven track record of 30 years, experienced in direct interface with clients and all levels of management and 7 years in the VET training arena.
Paul has shown himself to be a highly knowledgeable and skilled rail safeworking and infrastructure expert. His experience on track has translated into a professional trainer/assessor who is well versed in several network safeworking systems.
Paul has a current 3.1 TFPC on the MTM network along with L3 TFPC for the ATRC TA20 Mainline operations
Jim has 27 years’ experience in the rail industry starting with the Public Transport Corporation (PTC) Victoria in a mobile gang in 1991.
He worked his way to a position as a Senior Track Supervisor responsible for resurfacing teams maintaining track geometry standards, including resurfacing, sleeper replacement, lifting and lining of track, stressing and distressing track, and inspecting & certifying track to ensure safe train running.
Jim has spent the last 8 years as a Trainer/Assessor with John Holland and Mainco/Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM) prior to joining CERT in January 2016.
During this time, Jim became a member of the Rail Infrastructure Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) of the Transport and Logistics Industry Skills Council (TLISC) providing specialist knowledge in the development and review of nationally recognised Units of Competency and qualifications. Jim is a qualified track vehicle operator and Protection Officer in Victoria.
Terrence recently came on board with CERT bringing welcomed experience and knowledge. Terrence has a solid background in various disciplines, starting with V/Line in 1969.
Terrence has shown himself to be a highly knowledgeable and skilled rail infrastructure and safeworking expert. His experience on track has translated into a professional trainer/assessor who is well versed in several network safeworking systems.
His roles have included regional welding manager, Major works and occupations planning (SWO), LPA, Track Warrant, MTM adjacent line protection, to name a few.
Terrence is well informed and up to date with network standards across the mainline operations in Victoria, 1994 Book of Rules and Operating procedures along with the TA20 ARTC mainline operations, MTM, Occupations, PTF, track Force Protection, handsignalling, and lookout, V/Line, Major works and occupations planning. Track Patrols, thermite, adjust rail, ARTC TA20 Adjacent Line protection, track warrant, TOA, LPA.
His previous experiences in Track management, training and assessing, and mentoring have developed Terrence into a valued addition highly respected reputation and skills.
Mark has over 28 years’ experience in the rail industry. Starting in his first role as an Infrastructure Worker at Adamstown in NSW.
After gaining qualifications and experience Mark progressed through various grades including work group leader and track supervisor at the Hunter Bulk Terminal at Port Waratah. These roles on the track included maintenance, construction, inspections, track protection and patrolling.
Since 2008, Mark has been employed at CERT as a Trainer and Assessor conducting inductions, training, assessments and recertification. Mark has prepared both his peers and the upcoming workforce in all aspects of rail infrastructure and track protection. Mark takes considerable pride in being able to pass on his knowledge and experience to others.
Mark maintains his training skills through participating and assisting in development of courseware with CERT, by participating in CERT’s professional development programs and vocational placement.
Rod commenced with CERT in March 2019. Prior to this, Rod helped establish and then managed the Rail Skills Centre-Victoria (RSCV); the Victorian government’s public transport infrastructure training centre in Newport. During his 12 years at RSCV Rod worked on funding initiatives, established user groups, managed the complete redevelopment of the 550 metre train track and the 350 metre tram training track; worked with stakeholders to determine signalling requirements and plan for the installation of a representative, operational system, managed suppliers and grew patronage and the offering at RSCV to the point that it can be referred to as a true centre of excellence.
The strategic direction of the RSCV was guided by the Rail and Tram Infrastructure Industry Committee (RTIIC); a team from government, industry and unions. Rod was a key part of RTIIC during a time when the RSCV was established, required qualifications were identified and established and key partnerships made.
Prior to his time working in public transport, Rod worked as a Training and Development Manager at Victoria’s largest regional Water Authority, worked as a Product Innovation Manager in a Print and Data business, worked throughout Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia and the US as a Senior Business Development Manager for a franchise management software solution provider.
Rod brings a broad experience, knowledge and expertise to CERT. He believes passionately in customer service, quality management and in the dignity that employment can bring people.
Ivan started his working career with an apprenticeship as an Electrical Fitter and Mechanics with Sigma, a Refrigeration company.
Since 1979, Ivan has been working in the Rail Industry in all areas such as Infrastructure (both Track and Signals in Construction and Maintenance), Safe-working, Technical Administration and Assessing.
Ivan started as a skilled labourer in Mittagong NSW as part of an upgrading team on the main south, learning all aspects of track construction, renewal and reconditioning, while also developing his skills in Track Geometry, Examination and Safe-working Protection.
After that Ivan went into the Signals and Communication branch as an Electrician, upgrading the Illawarra line. Ivan then transferred back to Mittagong into a Renewals Team supporting maintenance teams on mayor track works before transferring into maintenance teams at Bargo, Picton and Bundanoon where he was promoted to Ganger, then Track Supervisor. He was then promoted into the role of Technical Assistant at Moss Vale, undertaking all matters of Asset Data Administration, Processing and Planning
Ivan was also used as a subject matter expert in developing assessment tools, then assessing for R.I.C and RailCorp, with the University of Ballarat for the initial Rail Competency Assessments Program.
Ivan joined CERT in 2008 as a Trainer & Assessor based in Chullora NSW and has helped with developing and upgrading of training materials and offering all his knowledge and guidance in the Infrastructure and Safe-working fields, throughout the Australian Rail Networks.
He maintains his currency in rail infrastructure by working closing with Fluor NSW and Taylor Rail as well as many other infrastructure clients, both on and off the job. He also maintains his professional training skills through participating and assisting in development of courseware with CERT, and facilitating professional development amongst other trainers within CERT professional development program. He is currently undertaking professional development to update his qualifications in both training and rail sectors.
Mark Brown is an experienced and professional trainer/assessor. Mark commenced his railway career in 1979 following in his father’s and both grandfather’s footsteps. His career has seen him involved in many projects and always within the operations safeworking roles such as, Signaller, Station Master and Protection Officer. Mark completed his career with RailCorp in 2007 as the Operations Liaison Manager that saw him go on to provide this knowledge and skill to a major rail contractor within the rail industry for works not only within NSW but also to various interstate networks.
Collectively he brings over 41 years’ safeworking experience in multi-disciplined areas involving construction and maintenance to many rail infrastructure projects during which Mark provided planning, scheduling and production in line with a Network’s rules and procedures.
Mark has extensive knowledge and experience in Safeworking areas such as Rail Industry Safety Induction, Worksite Safety Induction (onsite), Safe Work Practices, Safety Critical Communications, Protection Officer Levels 1 – 4, Handsignalling Levels 1 and 2, Track Vehicle Operator, Track Machine Operator (Light and Medium/Heavy), Certificate II in Rail Infrastructure and Safeworking 1 and 2 levels. Due to his years of rail experience, he also possesses practical knowledge in the requirements and application of Resurfacing, Ballast Cleaning and Track Laying whether these activities are performed during small or extensive possessions.
Mark is currently actively involved directly with Sydney Trains, ARTC, John Holland, CRN and more recently for Metro Trains Sydney delivering their rail safety rules to senior staff and managers, as well as numerous railway contractors, usually on a daily basis providing training & assessing, auditing, mentoring or simply helpful advice. Due to his knowledge, presentation and pleasant demeanor this often see clients requesting Mark for the training of their staff.
Mannie has over 13 years’ experience in the rail industry. Starting in his first role as an Infrastructure Worker in Sydney NSW. After gaining qualifications and experience he progressed through various roles including Aluminothermic Welder, Track Certifier and Examiner, Protection Officer and Track Vehicle Operator across the RailCorp Network.
Becoming a Track Protection Specialist was a role that Mannie thoroughly enjoyed and allowed him to mentor existing Protection Officers and pass on his knowledge and experience. This role led him to his career as a Trainer and Assessor and has been sharing his passion and knowledge of the Rail Industry with his students since 2012.
Joining CERT in 2019 as a Trainer & Assessor based in Thornton NSW, Mannie has helped with develop and upgrade training material and offers his knowledge and guidance in the infrastructure field throughout Australian Rail Networks.
Mannie maintains his training skills through participating and assisting in development of courseware with CERT, by participating in CERT’s professional development programs and vocational placement.