THE Torres Strait Regional Authority and Tropical North Queensland TAFE have joined forces to deliver training for aspiring Torres Strait business owners. 

The two organisations have developed an eight-week small business course to provide participants with the know-how and skills to transform business ideas into reality.

Students learn the principles behind small business management and are also given the opportunity to prepare and submit a business plan to a TSRA business consultant.

The course involves training blocks at the Torres Strait and Cairns TAFE campuses. Through the course, participants can also apply for a business loan and mentoring with TSRA.

Tropical North Queensland TAFE Institute director Joann Pyne said four of the tailored small business courses would be delivered this year.

"It’s a great program that provides practical training and outcomes for participants and is also a great example of organisations working together for communities," Ms Pyne said. "The first program commenced in March and attracted a total of six students.

"The next program is scheduled for June and I encourage anyone with an interest in operating a small business to contact Torres Strait TAFE to find out more."

Torres Strait TAFE business teachers Marianna Luckie and Vicki Pates said the level of enthusiasm among the first group of students was encouraging.

"The students were very eager to commence their training and have been excited about some of the subjects we’ve covered," Ms Luckie said.

"They have produced some excellent business plans – a great achievement for themselves and a great result for the Torres Strait community."

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