To read profiles on the 2011 Australian Training Awards finalists, visit the relevant links below.
Individual category finalists for the 2011 Australian Training Awards are profiled below.
These finalists have already demonstrated excellence in their field of vocational education and training by being named the winner in their category at their state or territory training awards.
To find out more about the state and territory training awards in each state and territory, visit state and territory training award websites available on the relevant links below.
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Tasmania |
Aaron Zantuck
Qualification: Certificate III in Agriculture
School: The Hutchins School
Employer: JG & JE Nichols
Training Provider: The Skills Institute
Aaron Zantuck is a student at The Hutchins School in Hobart and is studying Certificate III in Agriculture at the Skills Institute.
Aaron grew up on the family farm, but his father died when he was only 11, leaving the farm in trust to Aaron if he decided to follow that path when he was older. In 2010, he was offered the opportunity to undertake introductory agriculture programs, which led to his traineeship with employer JG & JE Nichols.
His aim is to acquire the knowledge and skills he will need to successfully operate his own farm and recommends the vocational education and training pathways to anyone considering farming as a career.
Aaron has been a member of the Australian Naval Cadets since 2006 and a cadet with a rural volunteer fire brigade since 2008.
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Victoria |
Jessica Pendlebury
Qualification: Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
School: Assumption College Kilmore
Employer: Northern Veterinary Group
Training Provider: GOTAFE
With the cooperation of at GOTAFE and her employer, Northern Veterinary Group, Jessica Pendlebury became the TAFE’s first student to undertake a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing as an Australian School-based Apprentice.
Working hard to both complete her VCE and be a qualified Veterinary Nurse by the end of 2012, Jessica is enjoying the opportunity to work in a nursing environment while completing her studies via flexible delivery.
Thanks to the Australian School-based Apprenticeship Program at GOTAFE, Jessica has guaranteed employment with her current employer once she has completed her VCE and is considering her options of either working full-time or working part-time and undertaking further tertiary studies.
Jessica has also become a Puppy Pre-school trainer, has mentored and tutored other students in the Certificate II in Animal Studies, and in 2010 was awarded Vocational Education and Training Student of the Year by her school, Assumption College, Kilmore.
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Queensland |
Jenna-Maree Jacob
Qualification: Certificate III in Media
School: Cairns State High School
Employer: Bumma Bippera Media
Training Provider: Triple A Training
From a young age Jenna-Maree Jacob was interested in pursuing a career in journalism. She therefore jumped at the chance to apply for an Australian School-based Apprenticeship in media with Bumma Bippera Media, a local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander radio station in Cairns.
Completing a Certificate III in Media equipped Jenna-Maree with practical skills and knowledge about the media industry. It also enabled her to work with elders and young people in her community and develop knowledge of her Aboriginal heritage.
In addition to studying and working Jenna is the Indigenous senior leader at her school. In this role she spends time mentoring younger Indigenous students. She is also a representative in this year’s YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament. Jenna is currently undertaking a Certificate IV in Screen and Media while completing her high school studies at Cairns State High School. She intends to study media at University with a view to becoming a television broadcaster.
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ACT |
Kimberley Budgen
Qualification: Certificate III in Business Administration
School: St Mary McKillop College
Employer: Australian Training Company
Training Provider: Regional Group Training
Group Training Organisation: Australian Training Company
Throughout High School Kimberley Budgen enjoyed studying business subjects and in Year 11 she completed her Certificate II in Business Administration. Kimberley is currently completing her Year 12 Certificate at Saint Mary Mackillop College while undertaking an Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASBA) in Certificate III Business Administration.
Successfully balancing the demands of study and work, she believes that completing an ASBA has helped her gain independence and confidence. It has also given her the opportunity to learn new and specialised skills such information technology, communication, teamwork and leadership skills.
These skills and experiences are helping Kimberley make informed decisions about her future career path. Kimberley is also a keen photographer, Irish dancer and soccer player. She intends to commence a Diploma in Business Administration after High School and would like to use the skills she has gained throughout her ASBA to find a full time position in the public service.
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Northern Territory |
Connor Reid
Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical Technology
School: Darwin High School
Employer: GTNT
Host Employer: Hastings Deering
Training Provider: Charles Darwin University
Group Training Organisation: GTNT
After completing an Industry Placement Program in Year 9, Connor Reid knew he wanted to be a Diesel Mechanic. To this end, he enrolled in a Flexible Learning Unit in year 10, which enabled him to complete work experience with various businesses in the industry. After working with Hastings Deering he was offered an Australian School-based Apprenticeship.
Connor says he jumped at the opportunity and is currently completing a Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical Technology while successfully juggling the demands of High School. Ever keen to have the voice of young Territorians heard, Connor is the Vice Chair of the 2011 Youth Minister’s Round Table of Young Territorians. In this role, he promotes Australian School-based Apprenticeships and Australian Apprenticeships.
Connor is also a keen sportsman playing, refereeing and coaching Rugby Union in his spare time. Apart from sport, volunteering and school work Connor is also completing a Certificate III in Fitness at and hopes to obtain his qualification as a fitness trainer.
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Western Australia |
Benjamin King
Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical Technology
School: Australian Trades College – Western Australia
Employer: Prosser Toyota
Training Provider: Australian Trades College - Western Australia
Benjamin King has always been interested in diagnosing and correcting problems with vehicles. In 2010 he commenced his Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical Technology with the Australian Trades College. Ben chose an Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASBA) as he wanted to complete his high school studies while gaining experience in the automotive industry.
Since commencing his ASBA, Benjamin has participated in work placements which have given him the opportunity to learn a range of new skills across various positions. As his ASBA has provided him with a nationally recognised qualification and a pathway to university or further training, Benjamin has encouraged several of his friends to pursue the same pathway.
Upon completing his ASBA, Benjamin aspires to obtain a heavy diesel mechanic qualification and is considering joining the Defence Force in the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineer Corps. When he is not busy studying or working, Benjamin can be found captaining his local hockey team or improving his Thai kickboxing skills.
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Tasmania |
Jillian Brandsema
Course: Certificate III in Children’s Services
Employer: St Brendan-Shaw College
Current employer: University of Tasmania
Training Provider: Stepping Ahead Training
Jillian Brandsema Juggling three children and a full time job with a VET course has been an exciting challenge for this secondary school teacher.
Jillian was employed at St Brendan Shaw College in Devonport for 16 years, most recently as teacher/facilitator of hospitality and child care training.
In her additional roles as vocational education and training (VET) Co-ordinator and registered training organisation manager, she has been closely involved with the development of VET courses in secondary schools, and decided to have her own skills and knowledge recognized through a Certificate III in Children’s Services.
This encouraged her to further career development, leading to a lecturing position with the University of Tasmania, assisting young teachers with their education and carrying out her own research in the area of child care.
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Victoria |
Lisette Mill
Qualification: Diploma of Conservation and Land Management
Employer: Corangamite Shire Council
Training Provider: South West Institute of TAFE
Completing a Diploma of Conservation and Land Management with South West Institute of TAFE in 2010 has helped Lisette Mill find a fulfilment her previous sales and marketing career failed to provide. Proactive in seeking volunteering and work experience opportunities in her region, Lisette has monitored southern right whales, searched for rare parrots and orchids and done the hard yards in rubbish and weed removal.
Work experience soon led to a contract as an environmental project officer at Corangamite Shire Council. Lisette undertook this role with gusto, initiating and facilitating a number of environmental projects including bushfire recovery, and distribution of green organic kitchen tidy bins and cigarette butt bins. Lisette continues to do volunteer work and intends to complete Certificate IV in Training and Assessment this year.
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Queensland |
Nigel Vogler
Qualification: Certificate IV in Applied Fashion Design and Technology
Training Provider: Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE
Fashion is a part of every aspect of Nigel Vogler’s life. At just 20 years of age, Nigel received national acclaim when the $18 vintage dress he reconstructed won the 2010 Melbourne Cup Oaks Day Fashions of the Field competition.
Nigel completed a Certificate IV in Applied Fashion Design and Technology where he says he developed the skills and knowledge required to launch a successful career in the fashion industry. As Nigel says, ‘TAFE showed me what to expect and taught me how to get there’.
Nigel’s future plans include the creation of a successful high-end fashion label and boutique store front where he will create one-off, quality designs for individual clients.
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ACT |
Midori Kobayashi
Qualification: Advanced Diploma of Accounting
Training Provider: Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT)
Midori Kobayashi was born and raised in Japan where she worked for nine years as an accountant. After moving to Australia she decided to update her skills and fulfil her desire to obtain a university degree. To this end, she enrolled full time in the Advanced Diploma of Accounting at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) in 2009.
Studying in a second language, in a new learning environment and culture required an enormous amount of commitment and resilience. Nevertheless, Midori remained focused and excelled in her studies; quickly becoming a role model and mentor for her classmates. During her studies Midori has completed mandatory work placements.
She has found the practical nature of these placements to be a very effective way to complement and expand upon her classroom learning. Despite having an extremely busy schedule, Midori has found time to develop an interest in Australian sport and is a keen follower of the Canberra Raiders. Upon completing her studies at CIT, she plans to enrol in an accounting degree at the University of Canberra. |
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Northern Territory |
Carine Kapiamba
Qualification: Diploma of Business Administration
Training Provider: Charles Darwin University
Carine Kapiamba came to the Northern Territory three years ago as a refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo. In a short period of time, she has overcome significant challenges to achieve success in her studies and make significant contributions to her new community and country.
In 2008 in order to learn a new language and culture, the mother of four successfully completed the Certificate III in Spoken and Written English. To further improve her English, while gaining practical business skills, Carine completed her Certificate II and III in Business and a Diploma in Business Administration.
In 2011 she was the recipient of the inaugural Charles See Kee Leadership Scholarship and she is currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Management at Charles Darwin University. Carine aspires to pursue a career in Administration and establish herself as a role model for others in the refugee and migrant community. She offers her services as a volunteer interpreter and has helped her sister set up a small business, African Fashion Boutique, at Casuarina Village.
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New South Wales |
Galit Segev
Qualification: Certificate IV in Hospitality Commercial Cookery – Patisserie
Training Provider: TAFE NSW – Sydney Institute
Galit is a scientist who, at the height of her pharmaceutical career, decided to follow her passion for food. She received the Best Pre-Apprentice Award when she completed her Certificate III in Hospitality. Last year she completed, with distinction, the Certificate IV in Hospitality Commercial Cookery – Patisserie, successfully juggling three children, work and study commitments. Galit is self-employed, and is focussed on product development and innovation, as well as education and volunteering.
With her entrepreneurial spirit, Galit has developed food and science education programmes, which have been delivered through the Commonwealth Scientific and industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Ultimo Science Festival, University of New South Wales, Botanical Gardens and the Australian Museum.
Galit has won a number of excellence awards including two bronze medals in the Callebaut Chocolate competitions in 2009 and 2011, reflecting her flair for chocolate.
With her dedication to empowerment through food knowledge, Galit is volunteering with organisations such as Vision Australia and Mission Australia.
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Western Australia |
Jonte Pike
Qualification: Advanced Diploma of Fashion Design
Training Provider: Polytechnic West
In 2001 Jonte Pikes’ family immigrated to Australia from South Africa. Motivated, focused and talented Jonte has always wanted to be a successful fashion designer. In pursuit of her dream she enrolled in an Advanced Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Technology in 2008.
Despite her youth, Jonte has achieved an enormous amount of success and recognition in the competitive world of fashion. Her ethnic influenced designs have been featured in a range of publications and catwalk shows. Jonte believes her success is in large part due to her vocational education and training course provided by Polytechnic West. As part of her studies she has developed and expanded her skills through work placements.
She has also had the opportunity to meet several Australian fashion industry icons.
Besides developing her own label “Jonte”, she hopes to show her designs at Sydney Fashion Week within the next two years and become an ambassador for the West Australian fashion industry.
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Victoria |
Stephanie Dalton
Qualification: Diploma of Children’s Services
Employer: Gunai Lidge Childcare Centre
Training Provider:GippsTAFE
Stephanie Dalton is a Gunai woman from Victoria’s Gippsland region. Mother to two young children and caregiver to her one year old niece, Stephanie’s interest in her children’s developmental stages has been the inspiration for a career in childcare.
Stephanie enrolled in the Diploma of Children’s Services at GippsTAFE, hoping that the knowledge gained would not only improve her parenting but also be something she could pass on to help other young Koorie mothers to assist in their children’s development.
In 2010, Stephanie was named GippsTAFE's Outstanding Koorie Student and plans to use her skills to ensure that Koorie children’s behaviours and cultural ways are understood. She is now enrolled in a Bachelor in Early Childhood at Deakin University.
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Queensland |
Steven Anderson
Qualification: Certificate III in Public Safety – Police Liaison
Employer: Queensland Police Service
Training Provider: Queensland Police Service
Looking for ways to be a positive Indigenous role model for the Cunnamulla community, Steven Anderson took on a traineeship as an Indigenous Police Liaison Officer in 2007. A proud father of four daughters, Steven completed his Certificate III in Public Safety (Police Liaison) in 2010 and is now employed with the Cunnamulla Police Station.
In his role as a Police Liaison Officer, Steven is responsible for promoting trust and understanding through effective liaison between diverse community groups and the Queensland Police Service To this end, Steven works with various agencies such as the Cunnamulla Police Citizens Youth Club which provides structured sporting activities for young people in the community and the Cunnamulla Men’s Group which assists Indigenous males.
Steven aims to become a senior police liaison officer and eventually a civilian watch house officer to assist Indigenous people and others in custody.
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ACT |
Hayley Hoolihan
Qualification: Certificate III in Cultural Arts
Training Provider: Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT)
Hayley Hoolihan moved from North Queensland to the ACT in the early 1990’s. Prior to completing her first course in 1993 at the Canberra Institute of Technology’s (CIT) Indigenous Educational and Student Support Service Centre, Yurauna, Hayley did not have the opportunity to access education nor experience its benefits.
After successfully completing this course, Hayley went on to produce her five favourite artworks – her children. Hayley decided to return to the Yurauna Centre as a mature aged student to study a Certificate III in Cultural Arts. A decision she says that has shaped her life as a mother, an artist and a proud Aboriginal woman.
Studying at CIT has allowed her to demonstrate to her children the value of education and it has helped her acknowledge and value her own achievements. Hayley now realises that a stay at home mum has a legitimate voice, options and is capable of adding value. Hayley recently started her Certificate IV in Cultural Arts and has begun teaching at the Yurauna Centre.
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Northern Territory |
Sam Wees
Qualification: Certificate III in Financial Services
Employer: Traditional Credit Union
Training Provider: Chamber of Commerce NT
Sam Wees recognised the importance of having banking facilities in his remote community. In order to ensure the Warruwi (Goulburn Island) Traditional Credit Union (TCU) remained open, Sam left his job slashing the airstrip and took a position with the bank even though he had little knowledge or confidence in this area. To address this gap, Sam commenced a Certificate II in Financial Services, and today he is a branch supervisor.
Identifying another way to assist his community, Sam asked the TCU to sponsor the first football team in Warruwi in ten years to compete in Darwin. The TCU provided sponsorship and the Warruwi team has become a point of pride in the community. Thanks to Sam’s efforts the team now plays in the carnival every year. After successfully completing his Certificate III in Financial Services in 2010, Sam is now helping his staff complete a Certificate II in Financial Services.
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New South Wales |
Joshua Toomey
Qualification: Certificate III in Electricity Supply Industry - Distribution (Power Line)
Employer: Ausgrid
Training Provider: Ausgrid
After making the decision to take control of his life Joshua Toomey joined Ausgrid in 2006 through their Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pre-Apprenticeship Program. With focus and diligence Joshua gained a highly sought after apprenticeship position with Ausgrid and has now completed his Certificate III Electricity Supply Industry - Distribution (Power Line).
With his communication skills, self determination and remarkable ability to motivate and encourage others, Joshua has not only transformed his own life over the last five years but also the lives of many other young Indigenous people who have suffered educational and social disadvantages. With an acute awareness of the barriers that many Indigenous young people face during and after school, Josh has participated in leadership training and taken on a mentoring role, promoting the opportunities and benefits of training.
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Western Australia |
Calvin Buckle
Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering (Electrical)
Employer: Apprenticeships Australia
Host Employer: Rio Tinto Iron Ore
Training Provider: Industrial Training Institute
Group Training Organisation: Apprenticeships Australia
Calvin Buckle has a history of excelling. He was the first Indigenous ‘Head Boy’ of Aranmore Catholic College in 2005, the Tom Price NAIDOC Apprentice of the Year Award winner in 2010 and he has completed his Certificate III in Engineering (Electrical) with consistently high assessment ratings.
Currently working for Rio Tinto Iron Ore, Calvin finds the iron ore industry motivating and challenging and gives credit for his success to the support he has received from his trainers, employers and Apprenticeships Australia. Calvin feels that his success as a young Indigenous person is important for his culture and his industry.
In addition to studying and working, Calvin spends time encouraging young Indigenous high school students in his community to look at the opportunities available to them through pursuing a trade and further training. He also volunteers his time for community projects in the Paraburdoo Shire. Calvin hopes to be in a position in the future to pass on the knowledge and skills he has gained from his trainers, employers and colleagues to other apprentices in the electrical trade.
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Tasmania |
Benjamin Wilkinson
Course: Certificate IV in Frontline Management
Employer: Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Training Provider: Jenard Training & Personnel
Benjamin Wilkinson is employed as Membership Consultant at the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI).
He had an early setback when diagnosed with epilepsy in his early 20s, but has overcome the condition with a healthy lifestyle and a positive attitude.
To gain more knowledge and skills, and to further his career at the TCCI, Benjamin decided to undertake a traineeship in Frontline Management with Jenard Training and Personnel. He has completed Certificate IV in Frontline Management and has enrolled in a Diploma of Business.
Outside of work Ben is the talent manager at a local music venue where he manages a group of young artists and mentors upcoming aspirants.
He sees the skills and knowledge he acquired through his traineeship as the key to his success in his current position.
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Victoria |
Amanda Divola
Qualification: Certificate III in Retail
Employer: Sweets and Treats Café
Training Provider: BendiGOTAFE
In 2010, while still completing a Certificate III in Retail at BendiGOTAFE, Amanda Divola realised her goal of opening her own business, Sweets and Treats Café in Wedderburn, Victoria. One year later, her training is complete and her business is booming.
Initially worried that study would be too difficult for her, Amanda thrived in the course and says it has given her self-confidence, independence and a great deal of pride.
Training has not only enabled Amanda to grow and improve her business, it has given her the ability to train four employees (one being a trainee) and share her knowledge to continually develop their skills.
Amanda recently won BendiGOTAFE’s Student of the Year Award in the traineeship category and also won both the Food, Wine and Hospitality and Young Achiever categories the 2011 Loddon Powercor Excellence Awards.
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Queensland |
Toniele Brennan
Qualification: Certificate IV in Youth Work
Employer: The Salvation Army (Queensland)
Training Provider: Scripture Union Queensland
To respond to the needs of youth in her community, Toniele Brennan left her job as a legal secretary in 2009 and began volunteering with the Salvation Army at Forest Lake.Recognising that young people in her community did not have access to a youth space or facilities, Toniele helped obtain state government funding for the establishment of the Salvation Army Lake Youth Service.
These experiences led Toniele to enrol in a Certificate IV in Youth Work and helped her secure part-time employment as a Youth Worker. She believes her training has given her both the theoretical knowledge and the practical tools required to help at-risk young people in her community.
Toniele continues to work with children at risk and is now studying for a Bachelor of Social Work at The University of Queensland and aims to complete a Masters of Mental Health.
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ACT |
Michael Briguglio
Qualification: Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking)
Employer: Australian Customs and Border Protection Service
Training Provider: Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT)
Michael Briguglio has always had an interest in technology and computers. Pursuing this interest, he successfully applied for a traineeship program with the Australian Government Information Management Office. During his traineeship, Michael was hosted by the Australian customs and border protection Service.
He was particularly attracted to this traineeship as it allowed him to rotate through several work areas, thus giving him a holistic view of the role that information technology plays in Customs and Border protection in Australia.
In addition to his on the job training and regular off site training, he successfully completed his Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking) through the Canberra Institute of Technology. Michael believes his traineeship has equipped him with both the professional and personal skills and the support network necessary to build a successful career.
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Northern Territory |
Melissa Agnew
Qualification: Certificate II in Animal Studies
Employer: Crocodylus Park
Training Provider: Charles Darwin University
Melissa Agnew knew from a young age that she wanted a career working with animals. In the absence of experience however, she had difficulty narrowing down her career options. To gain firsthand experience she decided to participate in volunteer work at Crocodylus Park.
This volunteer work led to Melissa being offered a school-based apprenticeship at the Park in Year 10. While finishing her final two years of High School Melissa completed her Certificate II in Animal Studies. In 2010 when Melissa finished High School she graduated with a Year 12 certificate, a qualification in the animal industries, work experience and a job at Crocodylus Park.
Being able to stay in school whilst completing her apprenticeship meant that other educational opportunities were still available to Melissa and she believes that this was one of the major benefits of her apprenticeship. Melissa is currently undertaking her Certificate III in Animal Studies and considering whether she will pursue a university degree.
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New South Wales |
Renee Zacher
Qualification: Diploma of Children’s Services
Employer: Rainbow Cottage Kindergarten & Long Day Care Centre
Training Provider: Southern Solutions – Business, Training & Employment
Renee Zacher has a passion and enthusiasm for early childhood education and enjoys helping prepare children for their future. Renee is highly regarded by her students and their parents, who describe her as a fun and dedicated teacher. She enjoys the diversity of her job and the opportunity to put into practice the skills she is learning.
Renee has worked in community coaching, an active before and after school care program, as well as training a junior representative netball team. She has played netball at state level herself, and is able to mentor others through her work and community commitments.
Renee has previously undertaken a range of vocational education and training, including a Certificate II in Sport and Recreation as an Australian School- based Apprentice and a Certificate III in Children’s Services. Renee has now enrolled in university and is studying to become a primary school teacher.
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Western Australia |
Abbey Sergeant
Qualification: Certificate III in Community Services Work
Employer: Shire of Katanning
Training Provider: Great Southern Institute of Technology
Abbey Sergeant, a trainee Youth Development Officer in the multicultural Shire of Katanning, thrives on organising and delivering programs for young people in her community. In this role, she applies for and administers program grants, produces a monthly newsletter and speaks to local high school students about upcoming events. She strongly believes in programs designed to support the shire’s youth, particularly the ‘Finding my Place’ program, which helps disengaged students to continue learning and find a suitable career path.
Abbey is currently completing her Certificate IV in Community Services Work and believes that working alongside experienced colleagues has been one of the key benefits of her Australian Apprenticeship. In addition to working and studying, Abbey participates in the local netball and football clubs and assists the Katanning Rotary Club. Her wide-ranging community involvement means nineteen-year-old Abbey is a very well known and respected member of her community.
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Tasmania |
Benjamin Standen
Course: Certificate III in Hospitality (Commercial Cookery)
Employer: Lebrina Restaurant
Training Provider: MEGT Institute
Benjamin Standen is a Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) apprentice employed at arguably Tasmania’s best restaurant Lebrina, completing his Certificate III in Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) with MEGT Institute.
Benjamin had family responsibilities at a very young age, but being able to study through on-the-job training while working fulltime made it possible for him to pursue a cooking career while supporting a family.
Benjamin has a passion for food and loves his work at the award-winning Lebrina. With the support of his employer Benjamin has been able to build his skills by attending special events like the Symposium of Australian Gastronomy and Crown Casino’s Chefs in the City program in Melbourne.
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Victoria |
Colin Wilson
Qualification: Certificate III in Hospitality (Commercial Cookery)
Employer: Chateau Yering
Training Provider: Holmesglen
Aspiring chef Colin Wilson has already worked with culinary masters Gordon Ramsay and Neil Perry and, after winning a coveted prize, travelled to France to work with Michelin star chef Thierry Marx. Colin has made a point of competing in as many individual and team competitions as possible to increase his knowledge and experience.
Currently an apprentice with award-winning Eleanor’s Restaurant and Sweetwater Café at the Yarra Valley’s Chateau Yering, Colin has won a number of awards for his work including the 2010 AUSTAFE Culinary Challenge (Best Second-Year Apprentice, Best Overall Apprentice in Australia). He also took out Holmesglen TAFE’s Iron Chef title while completing his Certificate III in Commercial Cookery.
Colin says he wakes up every day excited to go to work and cook beautiful food and learn something new and challenging. His future goal is to own and run his own restaurant.
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Queensland |
Jessica Meek
Qualification: Certificate III in Electrotechnology (Systems Electrician)
Employer: Conneq i.Power Solutions Pty Limited
Training Provider: Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE
Jessica Meek was interested in developing a career which had variety and challenge. After winning a Girls with Spark scholarship she commenced her new career as an Apprentice Electrician, and is thriving in this traditionally male-dominated trade. Jessica is currently completing and excelling in her Certificate III in Electrotechnology (Systems Electrician). She has achieved the highest results in her field and is the first female at the Tropical North Institute of TAFE to complete the Electrotechnology apprenticeship with an average of over 90 per cent.
At work, Jessica has found her niche performing quality assurance and control duties on electrical work carried out on Australian Defence Force naval vessels.
Always happy to take on additional responsibilities Jessica is also an Occupational Health and Safety Workplace Representative and is currently completing her Certificate IV in Occupational Health and Safety. She also intends to complete further studies in Instrumentation and Occupational Health and Safety Management. When not studying or working, Jessica enjoys participating in charitable fund raising activities.
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ACT |
Matthew Cuthbert
Qualification: Certificate III in Carpentry
Employer: BA Lentfer Building Contractors
Training Provider: Master Builders Group Training
Group Training Organisation: Master Builders Group Training
From an early age Matthew Cuthbert loved being outdoors and thrived on the personal enjoyment and satisfaction he experienced from completing practical tasks.
Unsurprisingly, he decided to enrol in a Certificate III Carpentry. Matthew’s studies have provided him with both a practical and theoretical knowledge of the building industry.
Matthew embraces the opportunity to apply his formal training at work as it reinforces his learning and increases his confidence and capabilities as a carpenter.
On a broader level, the experience that Matthew has gained during his apprenticeship has been invaluable in enabling him to conduct himself in a manner which he believes to be essential in the construction industry: that of a tradesman who takes pride in his work.
Having successfully completed his apprenticeship, Matthew is currently employed by BA Lentfer Building Contractors. He is now interested in pursuing a number of pathways available to him ranging from construction to management to further study.
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Northern Territory |
Rebecca Langley
Qualification: Certificate III in Electrotechnology (Systems Electrician)
Employer: NT Controls and Automation
Training Provider: Charles Darwin University
Needing a change after 10 years in the hospitality industry, Rebecca Langley decided that being an electrician was the perfect combination of getting her hands dirty and working outdoors. Even though she had no experience in the electrical industy, Rebecca decided to undertake a Certificate III in Electrotechnology. Rebecca began her apprenticeship with GBS Gold, and has completed it with NT Controls and Automation.
Rebecca is passionate about encouraging others to gain qualifications in order to increase and develop the Northern Territory’s workforce. To this end, Rebecca has always been willing to mentor and assist new apprentices. Becoming an electrician is her proudest achievement to date, and Rebecca would like to continue learning and expanding her skills through completing further studies.
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New South Wales |
Brendon Hillsley
Qualification: Certificate III in Meat Processing (Meat Retailing)
Employer: Coles
Training Provider: TAFE NSW – South Western Sydney Institute
Looking for a sustainable career, where he would be able to work with his hands, Brendon Hillsley jumped at the opportunity to undertake a Certificate III in Meat Processing (Meat Retailing) and has not looked back. Dedicated and enthusiastic in his work and training, Brendon completed his apprenticeship early. During his apprenticeship Brendon won range of awards and medals, and completing additional training to build and diversify his skills.
After his Australian Apprenticeship, Brendon was selected for the Coles Retail Leaders program, and has now achieved one of his personal goals by becoming a manager.
Brendon has also competed at state and national levels in several sports, completed Certificates III and IV in Fitness and organised fundraisers for charities and disaster relief. Brendon hopes to visit a cattle station in the near future to further expand his knowledge of the meat industry.
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Western Australia |
Ailin Gay
Qualification: Certificate III in Food Processing (Retail Baking - Combined)
Employer: Globe Coffee House
Training Provider: Polytechnic West
After graduating from the University of Western Australia with a Bachelor of Commerce, Ailin Gay decided to pursue her passion for the culinary arts. Torn between cooking and baking, she enrolled in a six month pre-apprenticeship course in baking and pastry making at Polytechnic West. This experience sparked her interest in artisan bread and led to her decision to complete the Certificate III in Food Processing (Retail Baking – Combined).
Throughout her Australian Apprenticeship, Ailin developed her artisan baking skills under the guidance of a French baker and Swiss pastry chef.
Ailin believes starting her apprenticeship as a mature aged student was advantageous as she had the confidence to stay calm under pressure and the ability to mentor younger classmates and work experience students.
In 2009 Ailin entered the Australian Baking Industry National Scholarship Awards and won the Arthur E Denison Trophy. She hopes to increase the public’s knowledge of artisan baking in Western Australia by opening an artisan bakery in the near future.
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Tasmania |
Stephen Lunn
Employer: Guilford Young College
Stephen Lunn is employed by Guilford Young College as a hospitality teacher and vocational education and training (VET) moderator. He is committed to VET teaching and learning and strongly believes in a culture where learning involves the whole hospitality industry.
His goal has been to research, plan and lift the standards of training being delivered in Tasmania and to improve learning outcomes for students. He also mentors teachers in the Association Colleges to keep training on a level where quality and set expectations are maintained.
As an award-winning chef, Stephen brings his passion for the industry as a whole to young students who are considering hospitality as a career.
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Victoria |
Scott Robinson
Employer: Victoria University
Victoria University’s Plumbing Department was only using the WebCT system to store student results when plumbing teacher Scott Robinson learned of its extensive capabilities at a Plumbing Training Moderation Group (PMTG) meeting in 2009.
Recognising the system’s huge potential for managing and structuring delivery of the Certificate III in Plumbing, Scott developed and implemented a WebCT assessment and learning management system, which has transformed learning and teaching in the Plumbing Department.
Scott overcame his lack of familiarity with information and communication technology by spending one day a week at the Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching (CILT) with the permission of his Head of School.
As a result of his work the department began delivering the new Certificate III in Plumbing via WebCT in 2010. The new system enables students to work at their own pace, providing students with more control of their learning, and enables a greater number of student assessments at the same time.
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Queensland |
Myra Sessions
Employer: Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE
Myra Sessions a registered nurse with extensive experience in all aspects of health care and has been working as a nurse educator since 1998. She is currently responsible for leading the Diploma of Nursing program at Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE, the largest provider of Health and Community Care training in Far North Queensland.
In this position, she has been instrumental in setting up co-delivery arrangements with the James Cook University nursing team for Indigenous nursing students on Thursday Island. She has also been responsible for pioneering the introduction of video streaming — a world first for enrolled nursing. Myra has also developed a Recognition of Prior Learning package for nursing, a first for The School of Nursing at the Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE.
In addition to her teaching role and despite battling multiple sclerosis, Myra works one day a week at the Mareeba District Hospital providing diabetes education and quality improvement initiatives.
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ACT |
Steve McMahon
Employer: Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT)
For the past 26 years Steve McMahon has worked in the metal fabrication trade in a range of roles including; business owner, supervisor and teacher. He has spent the last 12 years teaching metal fabrication and welding qualifications at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT).
In this role, Steve teaches across all programs including adult community education short courses, statement of attainment programs and longer apprenticeship courses up to and including Certificate IV in Engineering. Drawing upon his extensive practical experience, Steve has implemented a number of e-learning tools and systems at CIT.
These initiatives are designed to ensure more efficient and effective training of apprentices in the metal industry and to improve communication between students, their employers and CIT. Other institutions and industry bodies nationally are now seeking to implement these resources in their programs. Steve continues to look for new ways to improve outcomes for his students and institution.
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Northern Territory |
Marlene Organ
Employer: Nhulunbuy High School
Marlene Organ is passionate about delivering quality outcomes for vocational education and training (VET) students in the remote Nhulunbuy High School. Marlene has been the school’s VET coordinator since 2003. During this time, she has been instrumental in obtaining funding for and developing the school’s dedicated training facility, The VET Skills Centre.
In addition she has established the Gove Gourmet Café for hospitality students. Staffed by students, the Gove Gourmet Café serves morning tea and lunch to staff and senior students every Wednesday. These facilities have played a major role in ensuring the successful delivery of numerous courses and certificates.
Marlene is also committed to addressing the training needs of her community. To achieve this, she spends time with businesses and key stakeholders identifying their training needs. From these discussions, additional courses and certificates are offered by The VET Skills Centre. Under her guidance, enrolment numbers and the range of courses offered by the VET Skills Centre have increased significantly.
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New South Wales |
Robert Lawson
Employer: Department of Education and Communities – Illawarra and South East Region (Boorowa Central School)
Robert Lawson is a passionate and committed teacher who strives to achieve quality outcomes for his students. As a qualified chef and TAFE teacher, Robert has a strong platform for vocational education and training (VET) delivery in a school environment. He is constantly looking for new initiatives and programs that will enhance his own training and delivery, while also assisting other VET teachers.
Robert currently works at Boorowa Central School, a small rural school. However, he undertakes a 450km round trip each week to deliver Hospitality Commercial Cookery training to Year 11 & 12 students at St. Gregory's college in Campbelltown.
Robert helps students to identify career paths and supports them in subject selections and access to alternative programs. In a regional area with limited employment, Robert has worked tirelessly with his network of industry contacts to organise work placements and opportunities for his students.
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Western Australia |
Amanda Smith
Employer: South West Institute of Technology, Margaret River Education Campus
Amanda Smith is passionate about food and wine. For more than 30 years she has worked in the hospitality industry in both Australia and the United Kingdom as a chef, manager and trainer. Since 2005 she has been providing off-the-job training in Commercial Cookery to apprentice chefs from the Margaret River region.
Through her training, Amanda aims to give students an appreciation and understanding of the South West’s local produce. In her highly practical ‘Paddock to Plate’ class, students meet with farmers, foragers, olive oil experts, truffle growers and vignerons. Students also have the opportunity to press grapes and hunt for truffles and native bush foods indigenous to the area. At the conclusion of this unit, students prepare a long table lunch for local producers and chefs using their new found skills.
To continue her professional development, Amanda recently visited China as a guest chef and also spent a week in Singapore where she had the opportunity to visit the At-Sunrice GlobalChef Academy
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Please note the process for selecting Australian Training Awards organisation category finalists is detailed on the How to Enter page of this website.
Organisation category finalists for the 2011 Australian Training Awards are profiled below.
These finalists have already demonstrated excellence in their field of vocational education and training by being named the winner in their category at their state or territory training awards.
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South Australia |
Murray Bridge Veterinary Clinic
The Murray Bridge Veterinary Clinic offers high quality animal veterinary services to all creatures great and small in the rural South Australian town of Murray Bridge and its surrounding districts. The Clinic is committed to investing in vocational education and training in order to create a happy, productive working environment for its staff.
With accredited training provided by TAFE South Australia, the Clinic’s training is integrated on-the-job, with trainees and veterinary nurse students working hand in hand with the practice manager and doctors. Participating regularly in formal training, staff are provided the opportunity to develop individual training plans through which they identify achievements, career interests and training needs.
With their focus on the provision of high quality training, the Clinic has enjoyed higher staff retention rates, increased staff morale and quality patient care.
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Northern Territory |
Gold Medal Services
Since 1996, Gold Medal Services, a family owned business has been offering quick response maintenance plumbing services in Darwin. The company prides itself on a high standard of workmanship and customer service, thus ensuring jobs are attended to promptly and fixed right the first time.
Vocational education and training has been invaluable for the company, assisting the business build a multi-skilled, confident and satisfied team. Over the past 15 years, the company has commenced 16 Australian Apprentices, with each apprentice attending two months off-the-job training at Charles Darwin University.
Owners, John and Jackie Maclean enjoy watching their employees grow and develop into accomplished trades people.
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South Australia |
ETSA UTILITIES
ETSA Utilities Training Services is a registered training organisation that delivers technical and safety-based training to ETSA Utilities’ employees and external customers.
There are 12 training programs covering 130 topics in areas including apprentices, powerline, electrical, mobile plant equipment and pre-employment programs. The primary qualification delivered is Certificate III in Electricity Supply Industry Distribution (Powerline). Training is delivered at dedicated training sites in Angle Park and Davenport (Port Augusta) and at depots across the State.
‘Safe, skilled and committed people’ is one of ETSA Utilities’ key building blocks and this has created a culture that aims to help employees realise and grow their capabilities at the organisation, team and individual level. Training is woven throughout business planning at strategic and operational levels and includes individual performance plans to up-skill and motivate employees.
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Northern Territory |
Traditional Credit Union
Traditional Credit Union (TCU) was established as a Yolgnu-initiated response to the ongoing market failure and associated withdrawal of financial services by major banks from remote communities in the Northern Territory. Today, TCU remains Australia’s only successful Indigenous member-owned financial institution, and has sustained the delivery of financial services to 11 remote communities over the past 15 years.
TCU has a predominantly Indigenous workforce and has enabled major, ongoing cost savings to the Australian Government through being able to dispense with Centrelink entitlement payments by cheque, in favour of electronic payments to TCU members. It focuses on the social and economic wellbeing of members and communities in which it operates, and any profit earned is returned to the members in the form of education, employment, training and expanded services.
TCU’s Structured Training and Employment Program has been a great success by supporting Indigenous Australians to take up training and employment opportunities. It is also supporting the sustainable financial independence for people in remote areas of Arnhem Land.
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New South Wales |
Sydney Ferries
Sydney Ferries is committed to providing a better, safer and more reliable ferry service for its 14 million customers each year and has implemented a significant range of training and development programs to achieve this. Training initiatives and projects undertaken by Sydney Ferries cover all employees from induction to senior executive level, with an annual training plan for each crew member.
Also a registered training organisation, Sydney Ferries has sought to embed a 'training culture' within the organisation and to provide opportunities for professional development and promotion to its entire staff. Sydney Ferries has worked tirelessly over the last four years to build a nationally recognised maritime traineeship, leading to the position of Master Class 4.
For Sydney Ferries investment in training and retaining employees is critical in avoiding the worldwide shortage of qualified mariners and keeping the ferries properly staffed in the future.
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Victoria |
Flexible Training Solutions
Specialising in the transport and logistics industry, Flexible Training Solutions (FTS) offers vocational education and training (VET) opportunities in subject areas including human resources, business sales and marketing and transport and logistics.
The company delivers customised training packages to respond to individual businesses standard operating procedures and policies, delivering on-site training to high profile clients including Coles Group and Star Track Express.
Despite many of its clients having branches in urban, rural and remote settings, FTS offers a consistent training program to all individuals across the country. FTS was nominated as a benchmark provider of VET to the industry during the last strategic national audit of the transport and logistics sector. The company was also a finalist in the 2011 Logistics Training Council Training Provider of the Year Awards.
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Northern Territory |
Council for Aboriginal Alcohol Program Services Inc (CAAPS)
The Council for Aboriginal Alcohol Program Services (CAAPS) is a community-based substance misuse service supporting Indigenous families experiencing alcohol and other drug issues. As a registered training organisation, CAAPS delivers nationally accredited courses in community services to a number of remote and urban groups and communities.
Through its training, CAAPS aims to strengthen communities and improve their access to resources and support networks; increase employment opportunities and decrease the feeling of vulnerability often experienced by Indigenous people in communities; improve opportunities for the development of children as families are freed from dependence on welfare; and increase engagement with schools about employment responsibilities.
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Victoria |
South West Institute of TAFE
South West Institute of TAFE is the largest vocational education and training provider in south-west Victoria. The Institute offers over 400 nationally accredited qualifications, industry-specific short courses, workshops and training programs, in subject areas ranging from engineering to equine studies. Training is offered in the workplace, on-campus, off-campus and online.
Over the past three years, online and blended delivery has increased by 205 per cent. Youth enrolments have also increased significantly, growing 19, 25 and 43 per cent respectively in the three years since 2008.
In 2010, the Institute employed the equivalent of 308 full-time staff, received 12,500 enrolments and delivered 2.5 million student contact hours, reflecting a steady growth rate of 15 per cent in student contact hours over the past five years.
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South Australia |
TAFE SA Regional
TAFE SA Regional delivers 573 nationally accredited qualifications at 43 campuses and learning centres across regional South Australia. In 2010, TAFE SA Regional enrolled more than 24,000 students. Flexible delivery is embedded in program culture, with courses using a range of delivery methods, including classroom, e-learning, work-based, self-paced and through Recognition of Prior Learning.
As a public provider, TAFE SA Regional supports South Australia’s social and economic development through training that enhances career options, fosters regional employment and increases access for the disadvantaged and disengaged. TAFE SA Regional prides itself on its ability to identify opportunities, overcome challenges and work with and for its communities.
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Victoria |
SPC ARDMONA In collaboration with AMWU and the National Food Institute
Traditionally on opposing sides of the bargaining table, SPC Ardmona and the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union have collaborated to develop an induction-to-leadership training program for more than 2000 workers in the Goulburn Valley. All employees have had the opportunity to undertake Certificate I through to Certificate III courses, which have lead to nationally recognised qualifications in the areas of food processing and transport competencies.
Access to training has given all employees, both permanent and seasonal, the opportunity to develop workplace skills and transportable knowledge linked to national competencies from Certificate I through Certificate III. The two parties have collaborated very successfully, implementing training plans in conjunction with their registered training organisation, the National Food Institute, and with the financial support of government.
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South Australia |
Service Skills SA – The Retail Executive Program
Service Skills SA has partnered with registered training organisations, peak industry bodies, key employers and industry leaders to implement The Retail Executive Program to deliver Certificate IV and Diploma level qualifications in Retail Management.
The retail sector is a diverse and competitive environment. The Retail Executive Program offers skill recognition, case management, mentoring and support to boost the profile of the retail industry, attract and retain staff and assist participants in successfully acquiring their qualifications.
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Please note the process for selecting Australian Training Awards National Focus category finalists is detailed on the National Focus categories Judging Process page.
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Dardanup Butchering Company
Dardanup Butchering Company (DBC) is a family-owned company situated in the South West of Western Australia. Founder Frank Panizza commenced operations in 1948, delivering door-to-door the freshest and best red meat products that money could buy. Today, DBC employs over 200 Western Australians and is the only major integrated multi species abattoir in the state. DBC comprises five retail outlets, three Food Service Divisions and operates a variety of complementary departments, each of which requires highly skilled and specialised staff in order to run profitably and effectively.
Realising that skilled staff are more productive, efficient and dedicated, DBC offers nationally recognised training to every employee relevant to their role. DBC currently has 35 Australian Apprentices completing Certificates II through to IV and four employees studying at the Diploma level. The company encourages long term employment and staff satisfaction is reflected in the high retention rate of employees.
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Western Australia |
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Essential Energy
Essential Energy has the unique responsibility of building, operating and maintaining Australia’s largest electricity network – delivering essential services to over 800,000 homes and businesses across 95 per cent of New South Wales and parts of Queensland and Victoria.
As one of New South Wales’ largest employers, Essential Energy has 4,600 employees, including 516 people undertaking vocational education and training (VET) qualifications, with 412 Australian Apprentices and 420 people completing VET business service qualifications.
Essential Energy sees the provision of nationally recognised training to its staff as one of its most important functions particularly while facing ageing workforce and skill shortage challenges. Essential Energy’s safety and competency focused VET training delivery has contributed to the organisation’s enviable retention success rate of 98 per cent of its Australian Apprentices completing their trade.
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New South Wales |
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Thiess Pty Ltd
Thiess is one of Australia’s leading construction, mining and services company and is committed to providing innovative vocational education and training (VET) programs for its employees including its 110 Australian Apprentices. With operations across Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and India, Thiess requires a highly-trained workforce to deliver more than 200 quality projects in Australia and abroad.
Thiess is committed to investing in its future to ensure the company grows whilst retaining quality skilled workers. Of the 110 Australian Apprentices employed by Theiss, many are from Indigenous and non-English speaking backgrounds. With an 85 per cent completion rate, the Thiess Plant Apprentice Program is one of the most successful in Australia. Such positive results assure that Thiess will continue to build its skilled workforce to reach and exceed its own standards, and reach and exceed the highest possible industry standards.
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Queensland |
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Bendigo Senior Secondary College Applied Learning Program
Individual stude
nt need is a key driver of the Bendigo Senior Secondary College (BSSC) curriculum. As such, BSSC in collaboration with external providers, offers each of its 1650 students access to vocational education and training (VET) qualifications across a broad range of industry areas.
Currently, there are 633 students enrolled in 670 courses, through 23 VET programs.
Self-selection into one of eight Pathway Communities ensures students receive targeted support to optimise their individual development. The flexible curriculum provides all students with achievable learning options and multiple transition points. Within this framework, its innovative Applied Learning Program allows students (256 in 2011) to combine VET wth a mix of applied learning subjects, academic subjects and workplace learning. This highly successful program has improved the uptake of VET qualifications and student learning outcomes – notably an increased completion of senior certifications, a decrease in early exits and a shift to sustainable post schooling destinations.
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Victoria |
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John Forrest Secondary College - MPA Skills Partnership
Perth based John Forrest Secondary College (JFSC) caters for approximately 650 students drawn from broad socio economic and ethnic backgrounds. The college’s longstanding INSTEP program provides the framework through which a suite of vocational education and training (VET) pathways are provided for up to 150 students each year.
Students utilising the INSTEP program, are able to complete their secondary schooling whilst also completing nationally recognised VET qualifications.
Since 2007, a unique and evolving partnership between JFSC and MPA Skills (the principal training arm of the Master Plumbers and Gas Fitters Association of WA and the Master Painters Association of WA) to deliver a range of programs on the college site has developed. Through these programs, students begin the first stage of a mapped and highly supportive lifecycle for employment that begins with the integration of Australian School-based Apprenticeships within the senior school curriculum.
This pathway continues through to potential employment by MPA Skills as a full-time Australian Apprentice on completion of Year 12 or in lieu of finishing secondary schooling. Trends have shown increased applications each year and it is anticipated that there will be a waiting list for all programs in future years.
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Western Australia |
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Southern Cross Catholic Vocational College
Southern Cross Catholic Vocational College (SCCVC) is committed to providing high quality personalised learning focussed on delivering vocational education and training (VET) qualifications. Since 2010 the $23 million state-of-the-art college has offered 19 VET qualifications to its 220 students.
SCCVC students typically undertake three vocational course offerings, together with other complementary courses, to pursue their post‐school ambitions while successfully meeting nationally recognised training qualification requirements and the New South Wales Higher School Certificate.
SCCVC’s Learning, Well-Being and Career Development programs are offered to students and tailored to their capacities, goals and aspirations. SCCVC is passionately committed to ensuring students become the best people they can be, undertake the best training on-and-off campus, so they can reach their full potential.
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New South Wales |
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Ms Kay Ganley
Kay Ganley is the owner and CEO of Australian RTO CHARLTON BROWN® and immediate past National Chair of the Australian Council of Private Education and Training (ACPET).
Kay began her professional education and training career as a primary school teacher graduating from Kedron Park Teachers College. This was followed by specialist training as a teacher of the deaf in Christchurch, New Zealand. Professionally, Kay has occupied teaching positions and leadership roles in secondary schools, and for the last 16 years has been engaged in the VET sector.
As the owner of a private RTO Kay managed the transition from an Approved Training Organisation offering accredited courses to a registered training organisation offering courses from the National Training Package complying with AQF locally and internationally.
Kay was elected as the Queensland State Director to the National ACPET Board in 2002, and was subsequently elected as the National Chair in 2009.
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Queensland |
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Mr Paul Templer
Since 2006 Paul Templer has been employed as an Apprenticeship and Traineeship Consultant in remote and regional areas of South Australia where he engages with 25 different employers and 221 Australian Apprentices.
In this role, Paul works closely with disengaged Indigenous students to successfully connect them with Australian School-based Apprenticeships provided by local employers.
Many of these students are now progressing towards successful completion of their training and long term employment.
Paul believes it is extremely important to foster positive relationships with all his stakeholders, in particular schools and employers to increase the number of prospective Australian Apprentices. He regularly visits schools in the Spencer Gulf, including Port Augusta, to provide career advice and information on vocational education and training (VET) pathways.
Paul has acquired a number of qualifications throughout his career, including two trades. He is a qualified sewing machine mechanic and boiler maker, and has completed a Diploma of Business (Human Resources), and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. In 2012 Paul is re-enrolling with Charles Darwin University to complete a Bachelor of Education.
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South Australia |
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Mr Peter Coyne
Beginning his career as a teacher in Victorian technical schools, Peter Coyne has always been enthusiastic about building meaningful links between education and careers. In his current role with Crown, a major hospitality employer, he has changed the organisation’s learning and development philosophy from ‘training for a job’ to ‘learning for a career’, creating an exemplary model of vocational education and training (VET) in private enterprise.
Peter has been instrumental in developing Crown’s innovative Learning Pathways, which give employees a clear career path that is linked, at each level, to a relevant nationally recognised qualification. Employees progress from Certificate II and III qualifications to Certificate IV and then Diploma qualifications, building their knowledge and skills, as well as their career prospects. He was also a key instigator of Crown’s highly successful Indigenous Employment Program, which provides sustainable employment, support, and professional development to Indigenous Australians.
More than happy to share his insights and enthusiasm, Peter is a member of the Victorian Skills Council, where he advises the state government on training, particularly in relation to skill development in the private sector.
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Victoria |
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Ms Jeanette Allen
Jeanette Allen’s vocational education and training (VET) journey began as a hairdresser and her commitment to education saw her move from running her own business to be coming a VET teacher/trainer, completing a Diploma of Education, a Bachelor of Education and a Masters of Education.
After working as a teacher and curriculum designer, Jeanette progressed to facilitating advice on training and skills needs setting the standard for quality in the development and implementation of service industries training. With a fundamental belief in the power of education and how it can change lives, combined with a commitment to deliver outcomes, Jeanette is proud of the balance and underpinning principles that guide her work in VET.
Jeanette is the Chief Executive Officer of Service Skills Australia (SSA), a not-for profit, independent organisation that supports skills development across a range of industry sectors. Under Jeanette’s guidance, SSA is leading the way in VET reform and setting benchmarks on the global stage. Jeanette is also the current Chair of WorldSkills Australia and founding partner of the International Professional Standards Network.
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New South Wales |
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NGT Tasmania - Huon Aquaculture Collaboration
NGT Tasmania commenced operations in 1987 and has since assisted Tasmanian businesses to flourish with skilled and capable employees through delivery of two major services – Group Employment and Training Services.
In 2010 NGT Tasmania worked in collaboration with Huon Aquaculture to create real employment opportunities for disadvantaged job seekers in the North Western region of Tasmania.
Commencing in 2010, the collaboration opportunity arose when Huon Aquaculture relocated their salmon processing facility to North West Tasmania and as a consequence required 30 new employees to commence work in a remote location. To address the urgent need for skilled workers in this area, NGT Tasmania, in collaboration with Seafood Training Tasmania, Choose Employment and Huon Aquaculture developed a seafood processing pre-employment training program resulting in 25 unemployed people from one of Australia’s most disadvantaged regions finding a new career with a new employer in the region.
Today 21 of the participants remain employed after completing their Certificate II qualifications and all are progressing to the Certificate III level.
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Tasmania |
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Sandybeach Centre
The Sandybeach Centre is an independent not-for-profit community co-operative society established in 1982. An adult and community education organisation, the Centre is a registered training organisation, a registered occasional child care centre, a Learn Local Organisation and offers vocational education and training qualifications in language, literacy, numeracy, work readiness, community service, Training and Assessment and Information Technology.
The Centre assists its 800 learners, the majority of whom are hard to reach learners, to articulate and attain their vocational and personal goals through the development and monitoring of learner engagement and pathway plans.
Key to the Centre’s success is the provision of personalised learning experiences for its clients and maintaining strong relationships with local businesses including local Aged Care Providers, Childcare Centres and retail businesses. These relationships allow the Centre to respond quickly to local business and community needs. Recently, the centre won a national award for Community Based Adult Learning Provider of the Year.
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Victoria |
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Western College
Located in Dubbo, 500km west of Sydney, Western College assists its community of over 40,000 people to meet the challenges of geographical isolation, periodic droughts and limited employment options.
Using flexible training delivery
methods, Western College offers nationally accredited programs for nearly thirty different qualifications ranging from Certificate I qualifications through to the Diploma level. More than 1,300 people participate in these vocational education and training programs annually across the fields of business studies, retail, hospitality, agriculture, construction, aged care and community services.
The College uniquely tailors services for disengaged youths, unemployed adults and people with disabilities and social and economic disadvantages. In particular, the College is addressing the challenge of raising numeracy and literacy levels, particularly among the 2,500 local Indigenous Australians enrolled at the College.
A key to the success of the College is its use of the Skilling Regional Australia model which pinpoints the four areas in which the college makes a difference – at the regional, community, enterprise and individual levels.
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New South Wales |
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TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute
When it comes to sustainability TAFE New South Wales – Northern Sydney Institute (NSI) practise what they teach. As a whole organisation, NSI’s environment management system is certified to ISO14001 standards for the delivery of more than 450 vocational education and training (VET) programs to over 50,000 students. NSI offers nationally recognised training in emerging skills for sustainability such as renewable energy and green plumbing. It is also a pioneer of conservation and land management programs, providing training in a range of courses including; bush care and ecological principles for biological control.
NSI's influence in sustainability goes beyond teaching to the behavioural change of staff, students and industry clients, creating a multiplier effect for a more sustainable society. NSI is committed to embedding sustainability in all courses and training delivery, business operations, staff development, governance and communication processes, and recognition of staff and student excellence and innovation in skills for sustainability.
NSI extends leadership through partnerships with enterprises, government agencies, other TAFE Institutes and universities to proactively meet the challenges and opportunities of an energy efficient and ecologically sustainable economy.
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New South Wales |
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TAFE NSW - Illawarra Institute
TAFE New South Wales - Illawarra Institute delivers vocational education and training (VET) to meet the challenges of the changing national work environment by focusing on skills shortages, an ageing industry workforce, new models for Australian Apprenticeships, demands for re-skilling in trades and ways to retain young people in training. Each year, the Illawarra Institute provides VET training to over 34,000 students.
The Illawarra Institute has demonstrated environmental commitment and leadership in sustainable work practices through its internal operations and culture. Silver Recognition in the NSW Sustainability Advantage Program for innovative environmental and sustainability achievements, has enhanced The Illawarra Institute’s credibility with industry and community partners. These partnerships have increased engagement in environmentally sustainable practices across the region.
The Yallah Campus is an established green campus for environmental sustainability and demonstrates the ethos ‘Think Global – Act Local’. In 2011, educational staff completed targeted Green Skills programs and 10 per cent of student enrolments are in designated Green Skills training.
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New South Wales |
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TAFE NSW - Western Sydney Institute
For TAFE New South Wales - Western Sydney Institute (WSI), sustainability is more than just a single program or initiative; it is a whole of business philosophy in the delivery of green skills training to 114,000 individual, community and industry learners.
WSI’s world class Green Skills Hub and EcoSkills Centre ensures their students have exposure to the latest green and renewable technologies as part of their training, providing them opportunities to experience technologies to which they may not yet be exposed.
WSI’s range of programs and facilities ensure they fulfil their commitment to being a major contributor to the social and economic development of the Western Sydney region through the provision of responsive, flexible and accessible vocational education and training – in which green skills training is embedded from Certificate I to Advanced Diploma qualifications.
Innovative industry-led projects and partnerships along with highly trained staff ensure that WSI continues to be a leader in sustainability practices and vocational education and training.
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New South Wales |