Governor Visits Batavia Coast Maritime Institute During Midwest Tour

Central Regional TAFE was pleased to welcome His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Governor of Western Australia, and Mrs Darrilyn Dawson to the Batavia Coast Maritime Institute (BCMI) in Geraldton on 18 May 2026, as part of their visit to key locations across the Midwest region.

Managing Director Jo Payne, Director Training, Profile Operations Suresh Job, and Marine, Environment & Technology Portfolio Manager Juan Gutierrez Serrano received the Governor and Mrs Dawson. 

During the visit, the Governor and Mrs Dawson toured BCMI’s facilities, gaining insight into the breadth of training, research and industry collaboration delivered on site. The tour included BCMI’s state-of-the-art aquaculture facilities, horticulture operations, and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) research areas.

The visit highlighted Central Regional TAFE’s role in building a skilled local workforce for  regional industries through industry relevant training and innovation, particularly in aquaculture, maritime operations and sustainable food production.

The Governor showed great interest in the training delivered at the BCMI, asking detailed questions and providing positive feedback on the College’s operations, facilities and strong alignment between training delivery and industry needs.

Managing Director Jo Payne said the visit provided an important opportunity to showcase the impact of Central Regional TAFE, delivering training and services to key industries in the Midwest.

“The Batavia Coast Maritime Institute is a significant asset for the region, supporting students, industry and research partners through high quality training and facilities,” Ms Payne said.

“Central Regional TAFE delivers practical, industry‑aligned training that gives students real life learning experiences, often in partnership with their future employers. Our training provides the flexibility students need to balance work, family and other commitments in our beautiful regional location.”

“Shaped by industry and delivered by experienced lecturers, our training remains relevant, flexible and connected to real employment outcomes for our students and regional communities.”

The Governor’s visit forms part of a broader itinerary across the Midwest, recognising the region’s economic, educational and community contributions.

Photo caption: 

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Juan Gutierrez Serrano (Portfolio Manager Marine, Environment and Technology CRT), His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Governor of Western Australia, Mrs Darrilyn Dawson, Elizabeth Reed (Regional Development Officer Mid West Development Commission)

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His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Governor of Western Australia, Mrs Darrilyn Dawson and Juan Gutierrez Serrano

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Daniel Hoare (Aquaculture Facilities Coordinator DPIRD), Mrs Darrilyn Dawson and His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Governor of Western Australia