By NICOLE VALICEK
A LOCAL not-for-profit organisation has let a group of university students hold their open day to gain hands-on experience in their field.
Victoria University Event Management in Sport and Recreation Unit Co-ordinator Lisa Goettler along with 16 students worked with the Altona Miniature Railway for their family open day last Sunday.
Ms Goettler says as part of the second year unit students are required to approach a not-for-profit organisation and stage and organise an event.
She said this gives students a practical learning experience with a realistic approach to planning, executing and evaluating a live event.
“Students have ownership of the event from start to finish,” she said.
“They’re putting a live practical experience next to the theories they gain in tutorials and lectures.”
“It gives them exposure in the industry and builds networking and contact while still in classes.”
She said students also wanted to increase awareness and engage more people in the Miniature Railways, and increase its membership.
The event was also an opportunity to raise funds for the Miniature Railway and The Royal Children’s Hospital.
“Altona Railway was very willing to allow our students to take on the event. It’s been a huge honour,” Ms Goettler said.
Altona Miniature Railway president Robert Cox said they were happy to assist the students in a real-life learning experience.
“It’s good that we are able to help with the real world learning of the students.”
