WIIP Program

Are you a young person looking for a new career in hospitality? Pyrenees Shire Council is supporting local residents aged 17 and over to participate in a bespoke program aimed at providing career pathways locally, interstate and internationally.

**Expressions of interest extended to 15 July**

What is it?

The Wine Industry Immersion Program (WIIP) offers participants the opportunity to obtain Australian and globally recognised qualifications (RSA & WSET Wine Awards 2).

A Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate is a legal requirement for almost anybody working with alcohol in Victoria. This includes employees in bars, hotels, bottle shops, restaurants, nightclubs and other hospitality venues.

The WSET Level 2 Award is intended for people who have little or no prior knowledge. It is suitable wherever a good level of wine knowledge is required to underpin job skills and competencies, for example in the customer service and sales functions of hospitality, retailing and wholesaling industries. It is also useful for those who have a general interest in wine and wish to broaden their knowledge. Successful candidates will be able to describe and compare the styles of wines produced from internationally and regionally important grape varieties, interpret wine labels from the main wine producing regions of the world and give basic guidance on appropriate selection and service, as well as understand the principles of wine tasting and evaluation.

What is involved?

The program will consist of 28 hours online learning-to acquire the WSET Wine Awards 2 qualification and four hours online or face-to-face training to receive the Responsible Service of Alcohol certification.

The program will also include a two-day tour of wineries and establishments in the Pyrenees region where participants will learn various aspects of the wine making industry. This will include cellar door tastings and sales, viticulture, harvesting, manufacturing, business management, sales and events.

Why is it needed?

The Wine Industry is a key tourism drawcard in the Pyrenees and offers a wide array of employment and career opportunities.

The objective of this program is to provide participants with wine education, awareness and networking opportunities to potentially inspire residents to pursue a career in the wine industry within the Pyrenees and fill much needed job vacancies. 

Who can participate?
Pyrenees residents aged 17 and over who are unemployed or looking for a career change.

When does it start?

Expressions of interest are required to be received by email before the 15 July 2023.

What are the costs?

The Wine Industry Immersion Program (WIIP) has been fully funded by Pyrenees Shire Council and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing. This program is valued at up to $2,000 per person, but Pyrenees residents aged 17 and over can participate at no cost.

How long does it go for?

The five-week online course totals 27 hours study of self-paced and guided modules followed by a one-hour exam. This is complimented by a four-hour face-to-face or online Responsible Service of Alcohol course and the two-day Meet the Winemaker Tour.

Where can I find out more information?

 

Who do I contact?

To register for the program contact Pyrenees Shire Council Youth Engagement Officer Lisa Whyte.

email: Lisa.whyte@pyrenees.vic.gov.au
phone: 0448 167 378