Welcome to New Board Member Mr Troy van Heemst + our Strategic Planning Workshop

fftitc
Jun 3
2 min read

Troy van Heemst, President of Thoroughbred Breeders WA

The Food, Fibre and Timber Industries Training Council (FFTITC) Inc Board was pleased to welcome Mr Troy van Heemst, President of Thoroughbred Breeders WA, to its recent Strategic Planning Workshop held on 26 and 27 May 2025 at the Swan River Hotel, Ascot. Mr van Heemst joined the workshop as the prospective representative for the Racing and Horse Breeding sector, a new addition to FFTITC’s industry coverage.

Mr Darren Culverwell, Chair of FFTITC, invited Mr van Heemst in anticipation of his formal appointment to the Board. “Racing and Horse Breeding was recently included in our coverage following a decision by the Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD) and the State Training Board (STB),” said Mr Culverwell. “We were keen to engage with a representative who understands the sector and is passionate about advancing workforce development. Troy’s participation in the workshop marks an exciting step forward.”

Mr van Heemst brings with him extensive experience in the thoroughbred industry. After earning a Bachelor of Commerce, he pursued a Diploma in Horse Business Management at Marcus Oldham College in Victoria. His international experience includes time at Ireland’s renowned Airlie Stud, home to the influential stallion Ela-Mana-Mou. He currently manages the family’s Lynward Park Stud in Bullsbrook and actively supports the local community as Vice-President of the Bullsbrook Residents and Ratepayers Association.

Troy’s enthusiasm for the work of FFTITC was clear from the outset. “Through our discussions, it was evident Troy was deeply committed to the development of his industry. We look forward to working with him as part of our Board,” said Mr Culverwell.

To learn more about Troy:

Strategic Planning Workshop Overview

The two-day workshop served as a critical opportunity for the FFTITC Board and staff to map out a responsive, strategic direction for the Council. With a strong focus on supporting the industries FFTITC represents, participants explored ways to improve industry engagement, adapt to evolving workforce needs, and better align with vocational education and training developments.

Key topics covered included:

The broader policy environment, including the State Training Plan, National Skills Plan, and National Skills Agreement
Identification of key trends, challenges, and stakeholders across FFTITC industries
SWOT analysis and scenario planning using the World Café technique
Development of focus pillars and SMART goal setting to inform a practical, actionable strategic plan

Facilitation was led by Maree Gooch and Lauren Schutz from Value Creators, who guided the Board through structured and insightful sessions.

Adding to the workshop’s depth, Gordon Duffy, Director of the Office of the State Training Board, joined the first day to provide an update on STB priorities and reaffirm the importance of collaboration between STB and Training Councils.

Chair Darren Culverwell reflected on the success of the workshop: “The planning sessions enabled robust discussion, future-focused thinking, and productive collaboration. We are grateful to Gordon for his support and to all our Board members for their commitment to shaping the FFTITC’s strategic direction.”

As FFTITC prepares for the implementation phase of its strategic roadmap, the inclusion of new sectors and committed leaders like Mr van Heemst will ensure the Council remains forward-thinking and responsive to industry needs across Western Australia.

For further information, please contact our CEO Tony Palladino tony@fftitc.com.au