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A groundsperson looks after various sporting surfaces, including football ovals, racecourses, golf greens, and more.

They also work with irrigation systems, pest control chemicals and complete day-to-day tasks using land-forming machinery, such as a skid steer loader.

Eden’s sports turf management apprenticeship has given her experience in many different job roles and responsibilities.

“My current role requires me to assist with the maintenance of tracks and facilities, particularly relating to the Cranbourne Racecourse.

“A day in the life for me not only involves maintenance of turf and mowing, but also assisting with developing work programs across various sites.

“I’m currently also the health and safety representative, so ensuring everyone is safe in and around the workplace is paramount for me.”

At Holmesglen, apprentices learn important skills related to recreational turf, facilities and playing surfaces.

The course equips then to go on to work at a range of sporting facilities, from community level grounds right through to professional multi-purpose arenas, which are common in Australia.

Sports turf professionals use technical skills and practices to maintain these surfaces, ensuring a high quality and safe experience for clubs, players, spectators and other participants.

Holmesglen apprentices gain hands-on experience in maintenance and preparation, and study units that cover turf irrigation and

“I have established foundational skills and knowledge throughout my time at Holmesglen. Everything we have been learning, I’ve been able to implement into my everyday work life, which has been invaluable,” says Eden

Eden maintains a healthy work/life balance and studies the sports turf management apprenticeship part-time.

This flexibility gives Eden time to play for Melbourne Football Club’s AFLW team and, as a professional athlete, she knows exactly what is needed on an ideal playing surface.

“My apprenticeship has helped me maintain a sound routine. To have an apprenticeship provider and workplace that are flexible is a significant bonus.

“All teachers and mentors have provided a great environment to learn and grow, while also providing the support and development that has been instrumental in me juggling my studies, full-time work and AFLW.”

“I would encourage anyone considering this apprenticeship to be open to exploring a variety of turf disciplines. There’s the opportunity to dive into golf courses, ovals, footy fields and more, and the industry has so much to give if you have the passion for it.”

Find out more about our sports turf management apprenticeship and how to apply.