Tree Felling

Completing a course in Tree Felling will prepare you to use a chainsaw for both harvesting and non-commercial operations. Depending on your current skill level, there are three different competencies available to study; basic, intermediate and advanced tree felling. The different levels have varying requirements, including the size of the tree and the complexity of the surrounding environment.

You’ll learn to assess surrounding conditions and hazards, identify the requirements of the project, prepare and maintain your equipment, bring a tree down safely, and completely clean up the area. Due to the hazardous nature of this occupation, you will conduct your work under supervision, increasing the amount of responsibility you take on as you grow more confident. Upskill yourself and learn to safely and efficiently operate a chainsaw in this Tree Felling course.

Basic level competency standards

  • Maximum tree diameter of 50cm
  • Single stem with no excess lean and no visible damage or defect
  • Species and growth conditions not prone to splitting or twisting during felling
  • Terrain and slope does not add significant complexity

Intermediate level competency standards

  • Maximum tree diameter of 80cm
  • Single or multi stem with limited visible damage or defect
  • Lean and weight distribution which can be adapted with the use of wedges
  • Terrain and slope that may add complexity

Advanced level competency standards

  • Tree diameter greater than 80cm (but not limited to)
  • Substantial lean
  • Visible damage or defects that require complex felling techniques
  • Species prone to splitting and adverse reactions during felling
  • Terrain and slope that adds significant complexity

Qualifications And Recognition
Upon successful completion of this course students will be eligible to receive credit for the relevant unit of competence

Course Code

0417FT

Course Type

Short Course

Accredited Course

Study mode

On Campus

Location

Forestec

Times

5 days with additional days if required

Career opportunities

This course allows you to work as Forestry Worker, Logging Assistant and Tree Faller.

Opportunities for further study

N/A

Qualifications and Recognition

N/A

Placement

Not Applicable

Specialist Course Information

N/A

Material and Equipment Supplied by Students

Not Applicable

Entry Requirements

Mandatory entry requirements

Applicants are eligible for this course if they are at least 18 years of age and have the physical ability to meet the work requirements demanded by specific tasks. Parental consent is required for persons under 18 years of age, who have been deemed eligible to undertake the course.

Recommended entry requirements

It is recommended that participants have completed a Trim and cross-cut chainsaw course or be able to demonstrate equivalent skills. Please discuss your experience with the Course Coordinator when you make your enquiry.

Limitations to entry

Intermediate and advanced falling demands high level of industry experience and extensive knowledge in the operation of chainsaws and tree falling techniques.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Many TAFE Gippsland courses offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). To find out more visit the TAFE Gippsland website or contact us to discuss your option.

Course cost

For the course cost please visit the TAFE Gippsland website or cal 1300 133 717.

Course units
FWPHAR3209 Harvest trees manually (advanced)
FWPHAR3205 Harvest trees manually (intermediate)
FWPFGM3217 Fell trees manually (advanced)
FWPFGM3216 Fell trees manually (intermediate)
FWPCOT2253 Fell trees manually (basic)
FWPHAR3213 Conduct Mechanically Assisted Tree Falling Operations

Depending on the individuals underpinning knowledge and skills as determined in consultation with the Trainer /Assessor students are enrolled into the level and associated unit of competency that best meets both the current skills and development needs.

The following are a guide: Basic level competency standards