Ann Nicol

Two years ago, Ann obtained a Certificate II in Horticulture from our local Corowa TAFE, and now she is qualified to work in a nursery. Ann says the whole experience was amazing and rewarding. “Not only did I gain new knowledge and skills – I made new friends and interacted with people from my community who I otherwise would not have met.”

The age of the students ranged from 18 to 80 years old, with different reasons for taking on the study, and Ann says everyone was supportive and collaborative.

The course covered all aspects of Horticulture from home gardening, agriculture, gardening in public places to landscaping. “Consequently, some of the knowledge gained was not applicable to my situation. I can’t see myself using a boom spray or an electric pole any time!” laughed Ann. “But I can mix a chemical spray so it’s effective with no wastage, and I can use a hedge-trimmer properly”

Ann is challenging ageing stereotypes and believes ageing is not a disease. Ann says “Our age is merely the number of years this planet has enjoyed our company, our knowledge and our experience. Our age should not bar us from gaining new knowledge and experience.”

“If you were like me, you were at school in the 50’s and 60’s then you might think that the learning experience is not for you. But the adult learning environment is totally different from our school classrooms and is engaging and exciting!” encourages Ann. “So, if you want to explore new skills, investigate the learning opportunities in our communities both informal and informal, give it a crack and celebrate ageing!”