You need to understand one thing. All these trainers and training company’s aren’t here just because they want to make the world a better place, they are here to make money.. I assume the perception most have of me belies what I do for a living. In my job I have to deal with training and appointments and risk management everyday. Risk based management has swept through industry pushed by consultants much in the same way total quality management did in the early 90’s. Back then businesses were convinced they would not survive without accreditation yet nowadays you will find it hard to find someone who remembers the term. Riding along on the shirt tails of this latest phase is the training industry. Training companies convince big business that this is the way t go, more importantly they get in the ear of government regulators and legislators then it becomes compulsory.
I will give you an example in the 4WD world. Why do 4wd associations like 4wd vic exist? They start out as best intentions then they become a business that needs to profit. 4WD clubs now have read the memos and recommendations, done their internal risk assessments, now they say 4wd a course is pre requisite for a drive day. While the club may provide the training all their accreditation is at a cost. Look at the 4wd training companies websites; they all talk of government departments and businesses needing this. Take a look at the 4wd Vic website, there are all levels of courses, night courses, women’s courses, courses for red cars etc, all for money….
The next step for all this is already starting. These “associations “ are getting in the governments ear about trail closures, They say its ok to close the trails, then only those that can use them are those on designated trips run by accredited clubs or tours, that of course only have trained members. And every step along the way this involves money. You’re probably thinking I now have a tinfoil hat but if you take a little step back and take in the full view you will see the signs.
What doesn’t help these days is we live in the ‘it’s someone else’s fault’ world where we sue the government because a branch falls on our car in a state forest. People take no responsibilities for themselves so they need to be told to do things they could easily learn by themselves through experience.
This may sound like a rant I thought I would explain my views on the subject.
So why not try reading a few things, as a few questions, take the family out for a few easy drives, use some common sense, take a few calculated risks and note the outcomes, try things for yourself. Basically learn how people have been for ever.
More importantly keep your money in your pocket
