Professional Milestones and Infrastructure GrowthÂ
February marked a shift towards high-level compliance and campus development. The College hosted successful “pre-application” visits from the Department of Water and Sanitation and an Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) inspection from the Department of Employment and Labour, both of which yielded positive feedback. These visits were critical as the SSHEQ department continues to prepare for major external audits scheduled for March.Â
Infrastructure projects also reached significant turning points:Â
- The construction at the Hangar is in its final stages, supported by a substantial catalytic grant from Partners4Nature (P4N), a Peace Parks Foundation initiated Fund, which has enabled us to convert the space into a fully functional, state-of-the-art Operations Room. A newsflash will be published in April showcasing the new programmes and training opportunities now available to our students. The building works at the Ranger Camp are also nearing completion, providing much-needed accommodation that will significantly enhance the overall student experience and capacity for training.Â
- New air conditioning units were installed in the Daimler Classroom and Conference Hall, while a new weir pump was successfully commissioned for the reedbed.Â
- The ICT department successfully migrated users to Business Premium accounts and continues to investigate redundant internet solutions to prevent future flood-related outages.Â
At the beginning of the year, the old computer laboratory had to be relocated to the Daimler Classroom, situated in the maintenance area, following damage caused by the heavy rainfall. The new laboratory is now fully functional, and students have begun using the facility for their learning activities.Â
The transition has been smooth, allowing teaching and learning to continue with minimal disruption. Throughout the relocation, the ICT team played a central role in planning and executing the move, ensuring that all equipment was safely transported, correctly installed, and fully operational in the new space.Â
Looking AheadÂ
Despite the challenges of the “big rain” and occasional operational hiccups, the spirit of the College remains undeterred. With the ICT 2026 Strategy now presented to the Executive Committee (EXCO) and the Maintenance team steadily working through a high volume of job cards, the foundation for a productive year is firmly in place. As we move deeper into 2026, the SAWC continues to prove that it can weather any storm, emerging stronger and more prepared for the vital conservation training that lies ahead.Â