20 more apprentices complete Kirby CO₂ training

Through the program, a full class of 20 fourth-year apprentices have gained nationally recognised accreditation in CO₂ Safety and CO₂ System Repair and Service (UEERA0006 and UEERA0066).

Participants undertook the training program at the Beijer Ref Academy, delivered by SCM REF AU, certified by Superior Training Centre and supported by product and controls training from Appion, Supercool Group, Danfoss and Copeland.

The participants

Apprentices say the course has provided them with the necessary skills to work in this increasingly important area within HVAC&R.

“Extremely beneficial course. Great equipment, company providing insight. Very knowledgeable teachers and a great learning environment,” says M Stitz from Alpine Refrigeration.

“All the instructors were very knowledgeable and passionate which made the learning experience very easy and enjoyable. Thank you, team!” says M Mutkins from ARA Mechanical.

Kirby has acknowledged the participating employers who supported their apprentices through the upskilling initiative:

• Value Added Engineering QLD
• Specific Refrigeration and Mechanical Services VIC
• Woolworths
• Elite Refrigeration QLD
• Premiair Pty Ltd VIC
• Ultra Refrigeration NSW
• TSR Refrigeration QLD
• Award Refrigeration NSW
• Control Air SA
• Matthew Bedelph TAS
• Thermal Care QLD
• Mackie Electric & Refrigeration NSW
• Sims Refrigeration SA and NT
• TVHi NSW
• O’Connors SA
• Alpine Refrigeration QLD
• ARA Mechanical Services Pty Ltd NSW.

About the program

Established in 2019, the Kirby Apprentice Fund was created to provide apprentices with tool support, training, and development opportunities they need to succeed.

This is the second iteration of the scholarship program for the year, with 40 HVAC&R apprentices now having gained accreditation in 2025. The partners involved in the program are:

• Kirby HVACR
• ARBS Education and Research Foundation
• The Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC)
• Woolworths
• Supercool Group
• Danfoss
• Copeland.

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