In October, professionals in Port Pirie came together to boost their project management skills, attending a hands-on “Introduction to Project Management” course delivered in partnership with UniHub Spencer Gulf and the University of Adelaide. Participants explored the fundamentals of effective project management, gaining practical skills they could apply immediately to their roles.
The “Introduction to Project Management” course covered the fundamentals of managing a project from scope development and scheduling to understanding the project manager’s role. Participants gained hands-on experience with real-life scenarios, learning to apply essential concepts to both tangible projects and organisational changes. With guidance from industry experts, attendees left equipped with practical tools and strategies to lead projects confidently and effectively. One participant shared, “I now have practical tools I can use across different areas of my work, from team collaboration to project planning.”
Cody Girdwood, LBF Project Officer took part in this workshop, giving her the opportunity to connect with the event hosts and local businesses participating. The course was a valuable opportunity for Cody to sharpen her project management skills—skills that will be instrumental as she continues to connect regional businesses with economic development opportunities.
Cody Girdwood, commented: “Participating in the Introduction to Project Management workshop was a fantastic experience. It really highlighted how structured planning and clear communication are essential to running successful projects, no matter the scale. I left the workshop with practical skills I’m excited to apply in my role, particularly around scope development and schedule management. These insights are invaluable, and it’s inspiring to see the Local Buying Foundation making this level of professional development more accessible for people in regional communities like ours.”
This workshop is part of a series of UniHub Professional Development Short Courses, proudly funded by South Australian Local Buying Foundation. With the Local Buying Foundation support, a range of Short Courses offered by the University of Adelaide will continue running through 2026, helping to bridge the gap in quality training for regional professionals in areas like Port Pirie, Port Augusta, and Roxby Downs. Courses are tailored to regional business needs, including “From Team Member to Team Leader” and sessions on effective business writing and managing workplace challenges. This funding from the Local Buying Foundation reduces costs for small businesses and provides regional employees with the knowledge and skills they need to strengthen local industries and create a future-ready workforce.
More information about upcoming courses, including booking details, can be found on our Events page.
26 June, 2024
The South Australian Local Buying Foundation have approved funding for UniHub Spencer Gulf to continue delivering its Professional Development Short Courses through 2024-2025, under the Workforce Development funding category.
Local Buying Foundation funding will subsidise face-to-face professional development courses, delivered by the University of Adelaide. These courses will be available to the communities of Port Pirie, Port Augusta, and Roxby Downs, including popular offerings like Introduction to Project Management and From Team Member to Team Leader. Designed to meet the needs of local businesses, the courses address challenges associated with accessing quality training in regional South Australia.
Running from July 2024 to June 2026, the project will deliver four courses annually, offering critical skills across industries, such as business writing and managing difficult situations. The funding will help reduce costs for smaller businesses, making these valuable training sessions more accessible and supporting the development of a future-ready workforce.
The SA Local Buying Foundation Advisory Committee and Trustees approved this funding based on the successful outcomes of the 2023 short courses delivered by UniHub, which were also funded by the Local Buying Foundation. Each course was well-received within the regional business community, leading to waiting lists and expressions of interest for its continuation. Participants commented: “I have gained great tools to add to my toolbox, as well as strategies around communication and leadership styles.” and “I am confident to implement new strategies with my team when undertaking staff development.”
This project reflects the Local Buying Foundation’s commitment to building thriving communities and enhancing long-term capacity in regional areas. It also strengthens relationships with regional stakeholders like UniHub Spencer Gulf, enabling the delivery of practical, relevant, and impactful solutions for local businesses.
More information about upcoming courses, including booking links, can be found on our Events page.