TAFE Gippsland has celebrated the achievements of its outstanding students, apprentices, trainees and educators at its second annual Education Awards, held at The Wedge in Sale on Friday night.
Hosted by comedian Dave O’Neil, the event brought together the TAFE Gippsland community for an evening recognising the hard work, dedication and achievements of learners and educators across the region.
The awards highlighted the diverse pathways available through vocational education and training, and the people making a difference in their industries and local communities.
Educators recognised for excellence
Three educators were recognised with Teacher/Trainer of the Year awards for their commitment to student success and contribution to TAFE Gippsland.
Sarah Duck was recognised for putting students at the centre of everything she does. Known for her generosity, professionalism and can-do attitude, Sarah continually looks for ways to improve the learning experience and make things easier for both students and colleagues.
Taylor Berry was recognised for his contribution to developing the next generation of electrical professionals. Since joining TAFE Gippsland almost two years ago, Taylor has played a hands-on role in developing split-system and heat pump training facilities and improving the Clean Energy Centre. His passion for practical training, industry collaboration and continuous improvement has helped strengthen training opportunities in the growing clean energy sector.
Catherine Garland was recognised for bringing energy, humour and genuine passion to her teaching. Beyond the classroom, Catherine has built strong community connections that help students settle in, develop confidence and succeed. She also generously shares her knowledge, resources and industry connections with colleagues to help create opportunities for their students.
Celebrating student achievement
Students were recognised across a broad range of categories, reflecting the diversity of training and career pathways offered by TAFE Gippsland.
The winners included students excelling in foundation studies, school-based apprenticeships, Koorie education, school pathways and vocational training.
The School Based Apprenticeship Award went to Lilly Parton, while Courtnee Miller Mowat and Les Marcar were named Koorie Students of the Year. Graham Marks received the Koorie Program Student of the Year award.
Jack Lawrence was named Foundation Student of the Year, and Joshua Lees-Smith received the School Pathways Award.
Vocational Student of the Year winners
The following students were recognised for their achievements in their respective fields:
- Horticulture: Taylor Gregory
- Agriculture: Jarrod Breen
- Animal Studies: Subodha Ratnayake
- Business Services: Jemima McCall
- Alcohol and Other Drugs: Shannon Downey
- Disability: Paulo Barreto
- Mental Health: Tammy Pettigrew
- Education: Mia Cheffers
- Hairdressing: Tracy Worcester
- Nursing: Peter Caddie
- Health: Jeffrey Egan
- Victorian Pathways Certificate: Shacoda Williams
Apprentices recognised across 12 trades
Apprentices from across Gippsland were also celebrated for their commitment to developing practical skills and building careers in their chosen trades.
The Apprentice of the Year winners were:
- Electrotechnology: Nicholas Tselepis
- Plumbing: Tanner Hall
- Hairdressing: Tayah Jenkins
- Cookery: Jessica Fraser
- Food and Fibre: Emma Jowett
- Painting and Decorating: Leni Gliponeo
- Instrumentation: Jacob Williams
- Engineering – Mechanical Trade: Toby Downes
- Engineering – Fabrication: Lewis Noble
- Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology: Benjamin Hudson
- Cabinet Making: Jonah Wearne
- Carpentry: Jamie Smith
The awards recognise the dedication and technical skills apprentices develop through their training, workplace experience and commitment to their chosen industries.
Community impact recognised
The Community Impact Award was presented to Tyrone Hayes.
The award recognises a student who has made an exceptional contribution to their industry, acknowledging both their individual achievements and the positive impact they have on the wider Gippsland community.
Recognising the TAFE Gippsland community
The Education Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the people behind vocational education and training, from students taking their first steps into further study or employment to apprentices developing specialist trade skills and educators helping learners reach their potential.
TAFE Gippsland also acknowledged the Educational Experience team for supporting student nominations and encouraging learners to attend the event and be recognised for their achievements.
Congratulations to all award winners and nominees. Their achievements reflect the talent, determination and opportunities that continue to shape a skilled and thriving Gippsland.