Your tax-deductible gift to Avoca Trust directly funds student placements, vessel maintenance, safety gear, and specialized educational staff on the Murray-Darling river system.

Your Gifts are 100% Tax-Deductible

For example your gift of $25: ($25 x 150 seats x 365 days = $1,368,750) Enough to start the project.

Donations must continue to cover operating costs. We do not charge fees. We request and receipt DGR donations.

• Sponsorship Funds a full 3-year VETiS residential placement for a teen at risk of school dropout.

• Vessel & Equipment Fund Supports critical safety apparatus, kayaks, maritime gear, and ship maintenance (TS Mundoo & TS Safety).

• General Educational Gift Assists with daily operational costs, teaching staff, and learning resources across our fleet

AVOCA TRUST Charity Credentials & Governance

Avoca Trust 100% DGR Tax deductible Educational Charity

• Trustee: Capt. Arthur B Jones, M4.ILW, Dip.PE, Dip.Bus.Admin, TAEIV, JP

• Entity Type: Registered Australian Educational Charity (ACNC Registered)

• Tax Status: 100% Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR Item 1) Tax-Exempt Charity

• Purpose: "Education and training about the naturel Environment of the Murry River and near coastal regions" practical VETiS training, and youth dropout prevention.

All "Gifts" to this project are 100% Tax-Deductible

Official tax receipts for donations to "Education and training about the Murray River Environment" are receipted on entry or sent via email upon receipt of donations. Please provide the necessary details for your DGR receipt.

We plan to extend the school ship flotilla with VETiS Study team houseboats hosted by our graduate students.

TO:- Industries in the Murray Lands:- This is a great sponsorship opportunity for tax write-off helping teens at risk of school dropout.

Avoca Trust gifts are 100% Tax-Deductible, for Murray Environmental Education

Avoca Trust operates as a registered educational charity with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status. Because our mission is dedicated to providing hands-on education, environmental stewardship, and youth leadership aboard our Murray River school ships, program fees and financial contributions are eligible as 100% tax-deductible tax gifts/donations.

This unique structure ensures maximum tax benefit.

• family contributions,

• corporate sponsorships,

• philanthropic donations

• supporting youth at risk

WILL YOU HELP?

The Avoca Trust Community Board

Your Gifts are 100% Tax-Deductible

For example your gift of $25: ($25 x 150 seats x 365 days = $1,368,750) Enough to start the project.

Donations must continue to cover operating costs. We do not charge fees. We request and receipt DGR donations.

• Sponsorship Funds a full 3-year VETiS residential placement for a teen at risk of school dropout.

• Vessel & Equipment Fund Supports critical safety apparatus, kayaks, maritime gear, and ship maintenance (TS Mundoo & TS Safety).

• General Educational Gift Assists with daily operational costs, teaching staff, and learning resources across our fleet

AVOCA TRUST Charity Credentials & Governance

Avoca Trust 100% DGR Tax deductible Educational Charity

• Trustee: Capt. Arthur B Jones, M4.ILW, Dip.PE, Dip.Bus.Admin, TAEIV, JP

• Entity Type: Registered Australian Educational Charity (ACNC Registered)

• Tax Status: 100% Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR Item 1) Tax-Exempt Charity

• Purpose: "Education and training about the naturel Environment of the Murry River and near coastal regions" practical VETiS training, and youth dropout prevention.

All "Gifts" to this project are 100% Tax-Deductible

Official tax receipts for donations to "Education and training about the Murray River Environment" are receipted on entry or sent via email upon receipt of donations. Please provide the necessary details for your DGR receipt.

We plan to extend the school ship flotilla with VETiS Study team houseboats hosted by our graduate students.

TO:- Industries in the Murray Lands:- This is a great sponsorship opportunity for tax write-off helping teens at risk of school dropout.

Avoca Trust gifts are 100% Tax-Deductible, for Murray Environmental Education

Avoca Trust operates as a registered educational charity with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status. Because our mission is dedicated to providing hands-on education, environmental stewardship, and youth leadership aboard our Murray River school ships, program fees and financial contributions are eligible as 100% tax-deductible tax gifts/donations.

This unique structure ensures maximum tax benefit.

• family contributions,

• corporate sponsorships,

• philanthropic donations

• supporting youth at risk

WILL YOU HELP?

PS Mundoo team provides regular First Aid Updates as a regular Sunday morning event + BBQ lunch, for public clients. Regular full course update is required every 4 years for Continuing Employment in most Industries.

Typical 3-Year Cycle Example:

1. Year 1: Complete the full HLTAID011 Provide First Aid course (includes CPR). (Donation $100)

2. Year 2: Complete an annual HLTAID009 CPR Refresher. (Donation $50)

3. Year 3: Complete an annual HLTAID009 CPR Refresher. (Donation $50)

4. Year 4: Must Re-take the full HLTAID011 Provide First Aid course. (Donation $100)

All welcome to join our regular First Aid updates onboard. Click the Calendar link below for dates and location of TS Mundoo.

Text your name & enrolment request to 0418 836 137.

Download Course statement document.

Course fees are a DGR 100% tax deductible donation to our Avoca trust to join the course on SS Mundoo.

See our School ship Calendar for date and course information

Murray Schools Ships VETiS Course Guide: Cert.3 in Murray River Tourism, Hospitality and Care Services

Qualification Framework Context: Vocational Education and Training (VET) / Nationally Recognized Training Blueprint

Industry Focus: River Tourism, Regional Hospitality, Community Support & Care Pathways

1. Course Overview & Intent

The Certificate III in Murray River Tourism, Hospitality and Care Services is a specialized, multi-disciplinary vocational training framework tailored to the unique economic, geographic, and social fabric of the Murray-Darling Basin and river communities (such as the Lower Lakes, Coorong, and Riverland regions).

Unlike standard metro-centric programs, this course integrates the foundational competencies of Tourism (SITTIND003 / SITTTVL001) and Hospitality (SIT30622) with community Care Services, recognizing that regional employers often require versatile practitioners who can support eco-tourism ventures, river vessel operations, local accommodation networks, and community care infrastructure.

Key Objectives:

·         Equip learners with customer service, cultural sensitivity, and safety protocols tailored to river environments and diverse visitor demographics.

·         Build practical competency in food and beverage service, visitor information management, and guest accommodation.

·         Provide an introduction to supportive care services, addressing the needs of regional and aging communities alongside tourism growth.

·         Create direct pathways for school-based trainees (VETiS), career changers, and local workforce upskilling.

2. Core Structure & Packaging Rules

To achieve the qualification, learners must successfully complete 15 units of competency (typically structured as core operational units combined with specialized river-tourism and care electives).

Core Units (Common to Hospitality & Tourism Foundation)

Every student completes these essential foundational units:

(Click the Link to open study detail document.)

·         SITXWHS005 – Participate in safe work practices

·         SITXCCS014 – Provide service to customers

·         SITXCOM007 – Show social and cultural sensitivity

·         SITHIND006 – Source and use information on the hospitality industry (or equivalent Tourism Info source)

·         SITXHRM007 – Coach others in job skills

·         BSBTWK201 – Work effectively with others

3. Specialized Streams & Electives (The Murray River Context)

Students can tailor their 9 elective units into distinct focus areas depending on local employment demands:

Stream A: River Tourism & Eco-Operations

Focuses on guiding, regional interpretation, and booking systems suited for river cruises, houseboat fleets, and eco-camps.

·         SITTIND003 – Source and use information on the tourism and travel industry

·         SITTTVL001 – Access and interpret product information

·         SITTTVL003 – Provide advice on Australian destinations

·         SITXCCS010 – Provide visitor information

·         SIRXOSM002 – Maintain ethical and professional standards when using social media and online platforms

Stream B: Regional Hospitality & Food/Beverage

Focuses on front-of-house, cafe, and bistro operations for regional hotels, clubs, cellar doors, and river vessels.

·         SITHFAB025 – Prepare and serve espresso coffee

·         SITHFAB021 – Provide responsible service of alcohol (RSA)

·         SITHFAB034 – Serve food and beverage

·         SITXFSA005 – Use hygienic practices for food safety

Stream C: Community Care & Support Services Integration

Recognizes the critical intersection between hospitality/service management and community wellbeing in regional hubs.

·         Introductory units addressing health-support coordination, safe client communication, and person-centered assistance tailored to regional community care needs.

4. Delivery Modes & Assessment

·         Blended Delivery: Combines online self-paced theory modules with face-to-face block workshops and practical simulations (held in training kitchens, simulated reception environments, or regional partner venues).

·         Workplace-Based Training (Traineeships): Strongly encouraged via structured employment contracts with local tourism operators, caravan parks, hospitality venues, or community service providers.

·         Practical Placement / Service Periods: Immersive block placement (e.g., matching standard industry requirements of ~36 service periods / ~150 hours) to ensure students gain real-world proficiency in high-season river tourism environments.

5. Career & Employment Pathways

Graduates emerge with versatile skill sets suitable for multiple regional sectors:

·         Tourism & Recreation: Visitor Information Officer, Tour Coordinator, Eco-Camp Assistant, Houseboat Fleet Customer Service Host.

·         Hospitality: Food and Beverage Attendant, Barista, Resort/Motel Housekeeper, Cellar Door Host.

·         Care Services & Community Support: Support Worker, Community Activity Assistant, Residential Care Hospitality Aide.

·         Further Study: Pathway into Certificate IV in Hospitality, Certificate IV in Guiding, or Diploma-level business and tourism management programs.

AVOCA SCHOOL SHIPS PROGRAM

Residential VETiS Certificate III Application for Enrolment

Section 1: Student Information

Field

Details

Legal Surname

Legal First Name(s)

Preferred Name

Date of Birth (DD/MM/YYYY)

Gender

[ ] Male      [ ] Female      [ ] Other

Unique Student Identifier (USI)

Current Residential Address

Student Mobile Phone

Student Email Address

Current Home School / Academy

Current Secondary Year Level

[ ] Year 10      [ ] Year 11      [ ] Year 12

Section 2: Parent / Legal Guardian / Guarantor Details

Field

Primary Contact

Secondary Contact

Full Name

Relationship to Student

Residential Address

Mobile Phone

Email Address

Emergency Contact?

[ ] Yes    [ ] No

[ ] Yes    [ ] No

Section 3: VETiS Certificate III Program Selection

Please select the specialized Certificate III residential vocational pathway requested for enrolment:

• [ ] Certificate III in Maritime & River Tourism Operations

• [ ] Certificate III in Commercial Cookery & Shipboard Hospitality

• [ ] Certificate III in Vessel Maintenance & Operations Tech

• [ ] Certificate III in Community Services & Regional Care

Section 4: Home School & VET Coordinator Endorsement

(To be completed by the applicant's current secondary school VET Coordinator or School Principal)

Field

Details

Current School Name

VET Coordinator Name

VET Coordinator Email

VET Coordinator Phone

SACE / State Student ID (LUI/SACE No.)

School Recommendation & Approval:

I confirm that the student above is currently enrolled in secondary education and is approved to undertake this VETiS program as part of their senior secondary certificate studies.

VET Coordinator Signature: ___________________________      Date: ____ / ____ / ________

Section 5: Waterborne & Residential Health & Safety Clearance

Due to the unique waterborne residential environment aboard vessels, please answer the following safety questions:

1. Swimming Capability:

   • [ ] Able to swim 50 meters unassisted in open water

   • [ ] Confident in open water with a life jacket / PFD

   • [ ] Non-swimmer (requires basic aquatic safety clearance)

2. Dietary, Medical, or Physical Considerations:

   • Do you have any medical conditions, allergies, or physical restrictions that may impact living or training aboard a mobile river vessel?

   • [ ] No      [ ] Yes (If yes, please provide brief details below)

   • Details: _______________________________________________________________

Section 6: Enrolment Declarations & Signatures

• Student Declaration: I certify that the information provided in this application is true and complete. I agree to abide by the safety protocols and code of conduct of the Avoca School Ships program.

• Parent / Guardian Consent: I grant permission for the student named above to enroll in the residential VETiS waterborne program and participate in all practical shipboard training activities.

Urrbrae Agricultural High School

Student Signature: ______________________________    Date: ____ / ____ / ________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ______________________    Date: ____ / ____ / _____

TS Mundoo School Camp Booking Form

Vessel / Facility: TS Mundoo (School Ship)

Provider / Organization: Avoca Trust School Ships (100% DGR Charity)

Capacity: Operations & residential learning programmed for up to 130 students across scheduled group shifts/cohorts.

1. School & Contact Details

School / Organization Name

School Address

Camp Coordinator / Head Teacher

Contact Phone Number

Contact Email Address

On-Site Emergency Contact (Mobile)

2. Booking & Schedule Overview

Requested Start Date

Requested End Date

Total Number of Students

(Up to 130 max)

Number of Accompanying Staff/Supervisors

Year Level / Cohort Group

Requested Embarkation Port/Location

Your preferred location: _____________

3. Student & Staff Cohort Breakdown

For large groups (up to 130 students), please indicate your intended rotational or watch deck structure (e.g., Deck Watches, Shift Rotations for VETiS modules, Shore-Based vs. Waterborne cohorts):

• Group / Watch A: _____ Students | Lead Supervisor: ________________________

• Group / Watch B: _____ Students | Lead Supervisor: ________________________

• Group / Watch C: _____ Students | Lead Supervisor: ________________________

• Group / Watch D: _____ Students | Lead Supervisor: ________________________

4. Educational & Activity Modules

Please check the primary training and activity focus areas for your camp:

• [ ] VETiS Certificate III Modules (River Tourism, Hospitality, Maritime Skills)

• [ ] Aquatic & Water Safety Training (PWC Safety, Boating Operators Skills)

• [ ] Regional & Environmental Science (Murray-Darling Ecosystem & River Catchment Studies)

• [ ] Outdoor Leadership & Navigation (Canoeing, Expedition Skills, River Logistics)

• [ ] Standard Residential Camp Curriculum

5. Catering & Special Requirements

Standard Catering Required

[ ] Yes     [ ] Self-Catering / Mixed

Dietary Restrictions / Allergies

Vegetarian: ___ | Vegan: ___ | Gluten-Free: ___ | Dairy-Free: ___ | Nut Allergies: ___

Medical / Accessibility Considerations

(Please detail any mobility, medical management, or physical safety requirements for specific students)

6. Authorizations & Acknowledgments

1. Risk Management & Vessel Rules: The attending school agrees to adhere to all safety briefings, vessel emergency procedures, lifejacket instructions, and marine operations guidelines issued by the Master and crew of TS Mundoo.

2. Supervision Ratio: School staff retain primary supervisory responsibility for student welfare and behaviour while on board and at shore facilities.

3. Medical Consent: The school confirms all attending students have signed parental/guardian medical consent forms held by the lead coordinator.

Authorizing Principal / Coordinator Signature: ______________________________________

Date: _____ / _____ / 2026