The loader – which replaced an eight-year-old machine – is used for training operators, as well as for assessing those applying for operator’s licences, according to John Van Den Borne, the centre’s business facilitator.
"Since we purchased the previous machine, there have been significant improvements to technology, and this piece of equipment was needed to teach students looking to go into the civil construction industry as well as the mining sectors," he said.
John Tannahill, Komatsu Australia’s Major Accounts Manager-Government said it was a logical decision for the centre to opt for the latest Komatsu wheel loader technology.
"Because of our market leadership, there are more Komatsu loaders in the field than any other brand, and it makes sense for Wodonga TAFE to offer training on a Komatsu machine," he said.
This is the second piece of Komatsu equipment supplied to the centre in the past few years. Two years ago, the company supplied a PC200-7
Brian Smith, Wodonga TAFE’s acting chief executive said it was great to have equipment that featured the latest technology, and helped the organisation keep up to date with where the industry was heading.
"We always try in our institute to make sure that we have the latest equipment, and that’s reflected in all the vehicles we have here," he said.