There is plenty of info about growing posted on this forum regarding everything from light requirements to fertlizers.

k thanks

Phil - first photo looks like Aechmea nudicaulis var. flavomarginata. Yours look like they have been growing in a fair bit of shade. They grow well in bright light as well.
Second plant is Aechmea fasciata - it has spines, but its hybrid Primera does not. Prefers a shady spot, or morning sun/afternoon shade.
Third bromeliad is Neoregelia spectabilis, another hardy species. Also nicknamed "Painted Fingernail". It grows well in moderate to very bright light.

As a general rule, a little bit of slow-release pelleted fertiliser (half recommended amount) - like Nutricote or Osmocote - on first potting, added to the top of mix, is enough to get them going. Too much fertiliser will turn them long-leaved and lanky, and lose their shape and colour.
And/or, some weakly-diluted Seasol will aid rooting, and general strength and vigour of plant. Seasol also strengthens the broms for Winter. It has no nitrogen in it.

Good luck with your Tafe project.

Cheers,
Kerry

Phil,
I've reconsidered what your first photographed brom might be. It's hard to tell by those photos. Then I saw the size you quoted, and I'm thinking it is more likely to be Aechmea gamosepala cv. 'Lucky Stripes'.
Do you remember seeing it flower at your Pop's? See attached 2 photos - might jog the memory.....

Aechmea nudicaulis var. flavomarginata
{{gwi:449876}}

Aechmea gamosepala cv. 'Lucky Stripes'
{{gwi:449877}}

Does yours have a flower spike similar to either of these?

Cheers,
Kerry

lol oops i must have forgotttan to write the first ones name down i bought that one at the shop yea it is Aechmea gamsepala but it say 'matchstick bromliad'. the matchstick is just green right and than the varigated version is called lucky stripes, thanks kerry.

ps this page will be added to my great big book of knowlege.