The 54-year-old, who travelled 130 kilometres with his wife each Friday for the course, initially visited TAFE NSW unsure how to turn a computer on. It was his first time studying in 40 years.

Murray says the travel was worth it, and is now confident using the technology to run his farm. 

"I now have the skills to search for information on the internet to help my farm and apply to sell livestock," Murray said. He praised the teachers for their commitment.

"I even have an excel spreadsheet rain chart to monitor rainfall for my area now."

TAFE NSW has noted that primary producers and operators need to find new ways to increase productivity, reduce costs and labour-intensive work, market and meet consumer expectations.

With the agricultural sector 36.4 per cent of NSW industry employment, TAFE says many farmers and farm hands are seeking to build foundational skills in computers, smartphones and automated systems. 

TAFE NSW head teacher of information technology, Jacqueline Sheehan, said it was inspirational to see students like Murray build the confidence and skills to operate their businesses more efficiently.

"Murray is now using the technology he has learnt to manage his farm, that he would never have learnt had he not taken the leap to be a skill seeker at TAFE NSW," she said. 

Ms Sheehan said Certificate I and Certificate II in Information Technology both appeal to those wanting to relaunch and extend their careers by learning practical skills to maintain their businesses.

To find out more visit the TAFE NSW website or phone 131 601.