World Series Paintball – Themed Sheds Project

Orange College Students Build Real-World Skills Through Paintball Partnership

At Orange College, we believe in learning that goes beyond the classroom. Our Certificate III in Carpentry and Certificate III in Painting and Decorating students are bringing their training to life through a unique partnership with World Series Paintball, helping build themed environments for a brand-new venue in Clarinda.

A Practical Learning Experience

This collaboration began when trainer David Lister connected with World Series Paintball owner Travis Heal through a mutual contact. What started as an idea quickly turned into a real-world project: designing and constructing 16 themed structures for two immersive paintball fields — “The Town” and “The Wild West.”

Students were immediately involved in all stages of the build, applying classroom concepts to practical construction tasks. With guidance from Orange College’s experienced trainers, they’ve gained hands-on experience in:

• Reading building plans
• Planning and organizing construction workflows
• Using tools and equipment safely
• Constructing wall frames and cladding
• Working sustainably and collaboratively

As the project continues, students will also tackle more advanced skills like installing stairs, ceiling frames, and doors — offering exposure to the full lifecycle of a construction project.

From Workshop to Worksite

What sets this initiative apart is the transition from the workshop to the actual build site. Students will soon travel to World Series Paintball’s Clarinda venue to install the structures they’ve crafted — mirroring the real-world path from training to jobsite.

This experience gives students valuable exposure to working on-site, managing timelines, understanding client expectations, and adapting their skills in a dynamic environment.

A Team Effort Across Trades

Once the carpentry team completed the structural builds, the Painting and Decorating students took over, guided by trainers Mark McGonagle and Anthony Belia. Their mission: to transform each structure with period-authentic paintwork that brings the scenes to life — from weathered timber in the Wild West to colour palettes suited for a vintage townscape.

This collaboration between trades mimics real industry practice, where carpenters, painters, and other trades must work together to achieve a final product.

Building Futures — and a Paintball Park

Owner Travis Heal has been thrilled with the students’ workmanship, praising their skill and professionalism. Once construction is complete, Heal has invited all student participants to the venue’s official opening — a rewarding recognition of their contribution.

This project is more than just a training task — it’s a stepping stone into the workforce. It reflects Orange College’s mission to create industry partnerships that offer real impact and opportunity. Students are not only developing technical skills but also building the confidence and experience that employers value.

Through this partnership, our students are helping shape a local business while shaping their own futures — one wall, one brushstroke, one structure at a time.