At a 2012 Australian Training Awards Magazine

STYLING ‘AGAINST THE GRAIN’SARA BURKE — AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

UP TO THE CHALLENGE CHALLENGER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — LARGE TRAINING PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

BUSINESS OWNER AT 18ALISTAIR KELLER — AUSTRALIAN SCHOOL-BASED APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

Celebrating Australian Training

Australian Apprentice of the Year Sara Burke

Also in this issue:Employer of the Year: Drakes SupermarketsAustralian Apprentice (Trainee) of the Year: David FaillaSmall Employer of the Year: Comstar SystemsAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year: Nathan McGuireSmall Training Provider of the Year: LabTech TrainingVocational Student of the Year: Gloria DavisonVET Teacher/Trainer of the Year: Fiona FrenchIndustry Collaboration Award: Minerals Council of Australia - NT Division in collaboration with the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary EducationInternational Training Provider of the Year: TAFE NSW - Sydney InstituteSkills for Sustainability - Educational Institution Award: TAFE NSW - North Coast InstituteAustralian Apprenticeships - Employer Award: B&J Building Consultants and Steel SuppliesSchool Pathways to VET Award: Moranbah State High SchoolLeadership in Quality Award: Peter CoyneCommunity Pathways to VET Award: Bedford GroupLifetime Achievement Award: Peter Kirby AO

@AusTrainAwards

Styling ‘againSt the grain’ ________________________________________________________________________ 2Sara Burke — Australian Apprentice of the Year

From little thingS, big thingS grow ______________________________________________________________ 4Drakes Supermarkets — Employer of the Year

a zinger oF a career _______________________________________________________________________________ 6David Failla — Australian Apprentice (Trainee) of the Year

reliable connectionS ______________________________________________________________________________ 8Comstar Systems — Small Employer of the Year

artiStic Spirit ______________________________________________________________________________________ 10Nathan McGuire — Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year

Up to the challenge ______________________________________________________________________________ 12Challenger Institute of Technology — Large Training Provider of the Year

bUSineSS owner at 18 _____________________________________________________________________________ 14Alistair Keller — Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year

training on the cUtting edge ____________________________________________________________________ 16LabTech Training — Small Training Provider of the Year

how gloria got her ‘groove’ back _______________________________________________________________ 18Gloria Davison — Vocational Student of the Year

the beSt job in the world ________________________________________________________________________ 20Fiona French — VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year

tranSForming liveS in the top end_______________________________________________________________ 22Minerals Council of Australia – Northern Territory Division in collaboration with Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education — Industry Collaboration Award

opening Up a world oF poSSibilitieS _____________________________________________________________ 24TAFE NSW - Sydney Institute — International Training Provider of the Year

it’S eaSy being green ______________________________________________________________________________ 26TAFE NSW – North Coast Institute — Skills for Sustainability — Educational Institution Award

conStrUction in the kimberley __________________________________________________________________ 28B&J Building Consultants and Steel Supplies — Australian Apprenticeships — Employer Award

iSolation no barrier ______________________________________________________________________________ 30Moranbah State High School — School Pathways to VET Award

From teacher to mentor _________________________________________________________________________ 32Peter Coyne — Leadership in Quality Award

creating opportUnitieS ___________________________________________________________________________ 34Bedford Group — Community Pathways to VET Award

the kirby eFFect ___________________________________________________________________________________ 36Peter Kirby AO — Lifetime Achievement Award

honoUr roll _______________________________________________________________________________________ 37

real StorieS real achievementS: oUr aUStralian apprenticeShipS ambaSSadorS ___________ 38

where are they now? _____________________________________________________________________________ 39

In this issue...

A word from the mInISterI am delighted that I can share the stories of the winners, runners up and finalists of the 2012 Australian Training Awards through this publication.

The Australian Training Awards provides national recognition for those who have achieved outstanding excellence in their involvement with vocational education and training (VET).

Whether it is the story of the young apprentice becoming a qualified tradesperson and securing their future, or the positive influence of VET teacher/trainers in the classroom, or the importance of skilled staff to the profitability of large and small business, it is clear the VET sector is an important enabler of progress in our community.

Having a skilled, educated and productive workforce is central to the Australian Government’s plan to build a stronger economy centred on knowledge, innovation and improved global competitiveness.

In meeting the skills challenges of the 21st century, the Australian Government has been implementing critical reforms to the VET system so we can build a more productive, progressive, accessible and responsive VET sector. We do this in partnership with state and territory governments, and with industry at the forefront.

I encourage you to read the enclosed stories from the 2012 Australian Training Awards, including, for the very first time, the International Training Provider of the Year.

These stories typify the quality that is present in the VET sector, and I know you will draw inspiration from these accomplishments.

Chris Bowen

Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills, Science and Research

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Australian Apprentice of the Year

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Australian Training Awards Magazine 20122

StylIng ‘AgAInSt the grAIn’

Australian Apprentice of the Yearthe australian apprentice of the year award is presented to an australian apprentice who has been outstanding in all aspects of their trade.

Sevag Parseghianvictoria certificate iii in automotive mechanical technology

Having completed a Diploma in Engineering Technology, Sevag Parseghian followed his passion for the automotive trade, starting his Australian Apprenticeship in Automotive Mechanical Technology Light Vehicle at the Kangan Institute of TAFE.

Sevag’s enthusiasm led him to be selected as the only Australian Apprentice in the pit crew for Mercedes-Benz’s AMG Drive Experience Program. As well as numerous other achievements, he was awarded the 2010 WPC Group Apprentice of the Year and the 2011 Snap-on Tools Apprentice of the Year.

Sevag is passionate about promoting Australian Apprenticeships and has recently joined the Australian Apprenticeships Ambassadors program to inspire others to consider this career pathway.

Sevag wishes to continue and expand his knowledge to further his career, either by managing a Mercedes workshop, or starting his own business in the field.

Sara Burke has the world at her feet. Her effervescent spirit, urbane chic style, grit and determination leaves you with little doubt that she will grab life with both hands and achieve her goal of becoming a successful creative artist in the fashion and beauty industry.

In 2012, Sara completed an Australian Apprenticeship gaining a Certificate III in

Hairdressing and a full-time position as a stylist in an industry she loves.

Rewind six years and Sara’s career goals were

much different. While in Year 10, Sara was asked to think about her future. She

recalls her parents, teachers, peers, and even herself,

believing that a university pathway would provide the only

rewarding career option.

“We had to list our chosen careers, and which subjects we would need

to get there,” Sara said.

“My first career choice was physiotherapy and second was sports

science. I could not think of a third so, given my love of fashion and beauty, I

listed hairdressing.

“When I started university applications, I had a blinding realisation. What if I spend

four years and a hefty sum of money on a university degree and there is no job

waiting for me?”

With this in mind, Sara opted to take a gap year and work full-time.

“I thought if I am going to work for a year, why not try out an hairdressing apprenticeship?” She said.

“My decision literally shocked people. Hairdressing and apprenticeships in general seem to have this ridiculous stigma around them that they are ‘drop out’ careers and something you do if you are not smart.”

Despite the negative reactions, Sara started her Australian Apprenticeship with the La Bimbi salon in Canberra in 2009 and has not looked back.

Sara has built up a loyal clientele, and has spent much of her spare time participating in hairdressing competitions, building her profile as an up-and-coming hairdresser. The 22-year-old has won several awards and gained exposure in online and print publications including Style Icons, New Idea and Culture Magazine.

“Every day I get out of bed with a spring in my step and I am excited to go to work, something that not many people can say about their own careers,” she said.

Sara was awarded the 2012 Australian Apprentice of the Year Award for being the most outstanding Australian Apprentice in Australia. She is now an Australian Apprenticeships Ambassador and it’s now her mission to redefine apprenticeships and traineeships as first choice career pathways.

“It was tough to go against the grain of what my friends, family and society believe to be an acceptable career path,” she said.

“But I am so glad I did. Hairdressing allows me to combine all my great loves - people, fashion and hard work. What more can I say. I love what I do.”

Sara Burkeaustralian capital territory certificate iii in hairdressing “It was tough to go against the grain of what my friends, family and

society believe to be an acceptable career path.”Sara Burke

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Drakes Supermarkets South australia

Employer of the Yearthe employer of the year award is presented to a medium to large enterprise which has achieved excellence in the provision of nationally recognised training to its employees.

In 1974, Chief Executive Officer of Drakes Supermarkets, Roger Drake, purchased his first supermarket in a suburb of Adelaide with four employees. Now Roger has nearly 60 supermarkets across South Australia and Queensland which employ 5 500 people. Drakes is now the largest independent grocery retailer in Australia with an annual turnover in excess of $1 billion.

Drakes places high importance on staff training to continually develop and improve

its customer service and, importantly, to foster its

next generation to ensure future growth. Awarded

for this commitment, it was named the Employer of the

Year for its excellent training practices.

Roger was delighted with his company’s success at this year’s

Australian Training Awards.

“Our win at the Australian Training Awards is a total reflection of the hard work of our talented staff. We are

fortunate to enjoy one of the highest longevity of staff in the retail industry,

and much of that success can be credited to our unique training practices.

“At Drakes Supermarkets, the training and development of our staff is an intrinsic part

of our recruitment and retention strategy. We support and encourage our people to

have long term careers in retail, and take pride in their achievements in the industry.

“We make sure our team know that their role at our company is not just a job, but a lifelong,

rewarding career, with many opportunities for personal growth,” Roger said.

Drakes’ recruitment, training and retention strategies all aim to counter the challenges of high turnover of entry level staff in the retail industry. With a registered training organisation arm, the company concentrates on providing nationally recognised training to people who want a long-term career in retail.

Roger’s advice to other employers is to invest in staff training because, with the right skills and development, people simply enjoy their work, remain dependable and interested.

“In addition to our many staff awards programs, each year my wife Wendy and I host an awards luncheon for staff who have reached employment milestones of 10, 20 or 30 years’ service. In 2012 we had in excess of 90 employees receive a gold watch in recognition of this achievement. Today our ‘10 Year Club’ has in excess of 300 inductees who are still employed at Drakes,” he said.

In 2009, 30 of Drakes’ employees completed diplomas as part of the Retail Executive Program – the first in Australia to do so. In August 2010, graduates were recognised at an Industry Forum organised by Service Skills South Australia, and were presented with their certification as a ‘Retail Executive’. This has continued, with a total of 86 Diploma students graduating from the program to date.

The success of the training offered by Drakes is not only demonstrated through its high staff retention levels but also through the low dropout rates and the successful completion rates of its apprentices and trainees, many of whom start from Australian School-based Apprenticeships.

“Fostering the next generation in our business is a key strategy for our future growth. It’s nationally recognised training that helps us achieve this,” he said.

Sea Swift is Australia’s largest privately owned shipping company. Its fleet of 27 purpose-designed vessels deliver vital supplies and services to remote coastal and island communities and resource development sites.

The company employs over 300 people throughout Cairns, Thursday Island, Horn Island, Seisia (Bamaga), Gladstone and Weipa, and on vessels throughout far north Queensland.

The majority of its workforce is either on a vessel for extended periods of time or living and working in remote areas, including Cape York Peninsula, the Torres Strait islands, and the Gulf of Carpentaria.

As one of the largest employers in the Torres Strait region, Sea Swift makes a significant contribution to the employment and skills development of local communities. The company has a strong training ethos and continually invests in its staff at all levels. Training activities include formal inductions, cadetships, Australian School-based Apprenticeships and Australian Apprenticeships.

One third of Sea Swift’s employees represent a range of cultural backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Solomon Islanders, Fijians, Papua New Guineans, New Zealanders, Polynesisans, Maoris, Philippinos and Ni-Vanuatu. Just under 50 per cent of its staff are mature aged (45 to 73 years old).

Sea SwiftQueensland

Employer of the Year

fInAlIStS

from lIttle thIngS, BIg thIngS grow

Milspec Manufacturing is a precision engineering company engaged in the contracted manufacture of industrial, commercial and military products. Its customers include a variety of government, rail, utilities, telecommunications and infrastructure organisations, as well as many Australian and international defence agencies.

An integral component of Milspec’s business is its employees, their experience and expertise. The company has invested heavily in their training and development. Milspec’s success is reflective of the absolute commitment and engagement received from its entire staff.

In May 2010, after more than a year of training and stringent auditing, the company achieved the defence and aerospace quality accreditation AS9100 and became part of an elite group of Australian companies offering exceptional quality precision engineering work with ultimate traceability.

In 10 years of business, the company tripled its employee numbers, growing from a small family-owned business to a professional, globally-competitive organisation, and it has developed valuable relationships with some of the world’s most significant prime defence contractors.

Milspec Manufacturing new South wales

“The training and development of our staff is an intrinsic part of our recruitment and retention strategy”Roger Drake

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“Completing the Certificate IV gave me a clearer understanding of the topics that dictate day to day business.” David Failla

Australian Apprentice (Trainee) of the Year

rUnner-UP

David Failla new South walescertificate iv in retail management

Australian Apprentice (Trainee) of the Yearthe australian apprentice (trainee) of the year award is presented to an individual who is undertaking a traineeship and has been outstanding in all aspects of their training.

At 15, David Failla could not wait to start his first job and start earning money.

Like many teenagers, David was a fan of KFC’s ‘great taste’ and joined the company as a team member in customer service and food preparation. Little did he know that he would go on to forge a successful career at the company, complete an Australian Apprenticeship in retail management and be

rewarded for his efforts on a national level.

“Two years ago, I was fortunate enough to have been offered a traineeship

with KFC – undertaking a Certificate IV in Retail

Management. It has proved to be one of the best things I

have ever done,” David said.

At 22, David completed his Australian Apprenticeship and has become a General Manager

in multiple KFC restaurants across Sydney. Presently, he is the General

Manager of the KFC restaurant in Villawood, and is responsible for the

work of over 20 team members in the store.

“I’ve always been interested in pursuing business studies of some kind. The

traineeship helped me develop skills in leadership, teamwork and communication

and my knowledge has broadened about business and how it runs successfully,”

David said.

David now actively engages and mentors trainees in his store, and has won KFC

Australia Area Awards for his methods of

training and development. He is passionate about learning as a means to keep moving upward in a career.

“Completing the Certificate IV gave me a clearer understanding of the topics that dictate day to day business.

“When I started the traineeship, I was transitioning into a full-time Assistant Manager role. It taught me how to clearly set out my goals, set realistic deadlines and achieve them. After only two months into my traineeship I was able to effectively move into an Acting Restaurant Manager role for three weeks at the busiest store in our area. One week later I was promoted to a General Manager role,” he said.

Since completing his traineeship, David was offered a place at University of Wollongong to study a Graduate Certificate of Retail Management.

“When I finished school, my UAI was not high enough to get into business studies at University. But after my traineeship, they were offering me a place. It’s amazing what a few years of on the job training and experience makes!” David said.

David hopes to eventually move to KFC’s head office to undertake the Graduate Leadership Program with a view to pursuing a career as a human resources manager in the field of traineeships.

At the 2012 Australian Training Awards, David was recognised as being the best trainee in Australia winning him the Australian Apprentice (Trainee) of the Year Award.

“Winning the award was sensational and it proved to me that with a bit of hard work, you can do whatever you want. Your career starts when you want it to start. If you put in the time, you will be rewarded,” David said.

After completing Year 12, Daniel Helson took a gap year working in various jobs to decide what career path he wanted to take. Unsure of whether office work was right for him, he applied for and gained a business traineeship with the Australian Training Company, hosted to ACT Education and Training Directorate (ACTETD).

The on-the job training pathway has given Daniel a unique exposure to the business and government environment. He credits his training pathway with providing him the ideal skills, knowledge and customer liaison skills he needs to pursue a multitude of careers in business and government.

Over the course of his training at ACTETD, Daniel has demonstrated strong business proficiency and competencies. As a testament to this, after only four months working in general administration roles, he was offered a four month higher duties assignment, where he enjoyed acting in a communications role.

Since his success at the Australian Training Awards, Daniel has joined the Australian Government’s Australian Apprenticeships Ambassadors program to encourage others to complete a traineeship.

Daniel Helsonaustralian capital territory certificate iii in business

A zInger of A cAreer

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Comstar Systemstasmania

Small Employer of the Yearthe Small employer of the year award is presented to a small enterprise which has achieved excellence in the provision of nationally recognised training to its employees.

With our fast-paced society centred on sustainable power and instant connectivity, Comstar Systems is well placed to assist individuals and Australian businesses alike to enjoy reliable communications and energy services.

A provider of telecommunications, broadcasting and renewable energy services for the construction industry, Comstar Systems was formed in 2009 to fill a gap in the Tasmanian market for a ‘one-

stop-shop’ of services across all telecommunications disciplines and to harness the opportunities brought

about by the rollout of the National Broadband

Network.

Since its inception nearly four years ago, Comstar Systems

has poured much of its profits back into skills and training to

develop a multi-skilled team of communications engineers,

designers, technical officers, riggers, project managers and

electrical contractors.

Rewarded for its efforts, it was named the best small employer in

Australia because of its outstanding commitment to the provision of

nationally recognised training to its workforce.

Ian Bowden, the company’s Human Resources Manager, regards the win as a

fantastic achievement.

“For Comstar and all our staff the win at the national level is phenomenal. We only started three years ago and since then we’ve tripled our staff, all of whom have received nationally recognised training. Whether it was project management, Workplace Health and Safety courses, or the on-the-job training our apprentices receive.

“This is just-reward for concentrating on our people and their skills,” Ian said.

A core commitment to training and mentoring has helped the company maintain steady growth while building industry expertise. Since its establishment, the company has expanded and created jobs for more than 20 new employees. Seven staff members completed Australian Apprenticeships in 2011 and there are staff currently undertaking apprenticeships and traineeships in electrical, business and intermediate rigging.

“In our industry if the staff and the apprentices aren’t trained well, then we don’t produce quality. If the work is not of a high standard, we don’t get the jobs, it’s as simple as that. So we focus 100 per cent on training to the standards that the industry calls for, and beyond,” Ian said.

relIABle connectIonS

Celebrating 21 years in business this year, Ceiling Solutions provides ceiling, wall fixing and home insulation services to the residential ceiling market in Western Australia. Since its establishment in 1992, the company has grown to become one of the largest operators of its kind in the state.

Since 2004, the company has proudly boasted an Australian Apprentice retention rate of 90 per cent with many of its former Australian Apprentices remaining employed with the company.

In seeking the best and most flexible training solutions for its staff, Ceiling Solutions has collaborated with registered training organisations Polytechnic West, Challenger Institute of Technology and the South West Institute of Technology.

This collaboration resulted in a flexible Australian Apprenticeships program for the industry designed to improve the educational experience for the Australian Apprentices in the plastering trade, the collaborating training providers and for the company as a whole.

This unique training course allows lecturers to perform assessments on work sites rather than in the classroom, resulting in less absenteeism for the company as well as giving its Australian Apprentices the opportunity to perform real and relevant tasks for assessment.

Proving its training solutions are of a high standard, the company’s ceiling fixer, Stephen Howden, was ranked amongst the top three young plasterers in Australia at the WorldSkills National Competition in September this year.

Ceiling Solutions western australia

DAC Enterprises is a civil engineering and construction services business that has been serving the Northern Territory for more than 25 years. A remote specialist, offering services to both government departments and private enterprises, the company also operates transport, haulage, quarry, plumbing and drainage divisions, giving it truly unique expertise with a customer-driven reputation.

At present, seven of its staff are undertaking nationally recognised qualifications to increase the company’s skill capacity and support business goals.

The practical business outcomes of staff training are reflected in the company’s improved productivity and staff retention levels. Since formal training was introduced in 2010 there has been a 10 per cent reduction in on-site accidents and a greatly improved standard of work. In addition, many staff have reported greater confidence and career satisfaction, ensuring a strong future for the business.

The company’s People and Culture Department is responsible for its recruitment and training programs. A training and skills development resource library and regular one-on-one performance assessments are just some of the ways it is striving to assist staff in reaching company and personal career development goals.

DAC Enterprises northern territory

“This is just-reward for concentrating on our people and their skills.”Ian Bowden

Small Employer of the Year

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Mother of four Becara Lee Hands stepped outside of her comfort zone to gain the skills she needed to begin a career that would secure her future, and provide her with personal satisfaction.

Becara began her journey in vocational education and training when she completed a Certificate II in Business. The qualification helped Becara gain a new found confidence and a strong realisation that a career in healthcare would follow.

With a determination to succeed, Becara is well on her way to becoming a registered nurse having completed her studies in both Aged Care and Home and Community Care in five months. She is now working towards completing her Diploma of Nursing to become an enrolled nurse.

Becara is excited about the future and would like to work in her local community, delivering a culturally acceptable and holistic approach to health care.

Becara Lee HandsSouth australia diploma of nursing (enrolled - division 2 nursing)

“I want to be a role model for other Indigenous young people, and show them they can do it too…it’s just a matter of believing in yourself.” Nathan McGuire

Nathan McGuire western australia advanced diploma of interior design

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year

rUnner-UP

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year the aboriginal and torres Strait islander Student of the year award recognises the achievement of an aboriginal or torres Strait islander student who displays a strong understanding and knowledge of the vocational education and training system and demonstrates the relevance of lifelong learning for themselves and their community.

Hanging in his mother’s kitchen is a plate Nathan McGuire designed when he was five years old.

When he visits her house, he looks at the plate with fondness and recalls the making of it as the first memory of when his passion for art and design began.

“It’s not a bad effort for a five year old! I remember I wanted to get it right. I tried so hard

to find the right coloured pencils and all I wanted was to do the best drawing

out of everyone. I jokingly think of this as my first design

project, but ever since I have not stopped,” Nathan said.

Fast forward 17 years from his plate making days, and you will

find Nathan to be a spirited and award winning interior designer,

with the world of art and design his greatest passion in life.

“I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in design from a young age. I

started with a Certificate IV in Interior Decoration, progressed through to the

Diploma of Interior Design and I have just completed the Advanced Diploma of

Interior Design at the Central Institute of Technology.

“The courses have provided me with the skills to achieve my career goals of working as an

interior designer for an architecture firm, or owning my own business in the future,” he said.

Nathan incorporates his Indigenous heritage in his designs, and last year a bathroom design he

created won the 2011 Crosby Tile Challenge and

featured in Scoop Home and Art Magazine and The West Australian.

“My design was based on the Aboriginal water spirit, the Wagyl. I often bring my culture into my designs. For example, I was recently asked to provide a design for a local café with Indigenous influence in the design. I asked myself, what purpose does a café serve? It is a meeting place for the community and the notion of community is a common theme in Indigenous culture. Using a story or painting about community gave me a great inspiration for a design,” Nathan said.

In his spare time, Nathan plays for the Thundersticks hockey team and is a participant in the Western Australia Institute of Sport men’s hockey program. In 2011he was awarded Hockey WA’s Youth Player of the Year.

He uses his sports career experience to run and assist with programs for school students through the Nyoongar Sports Association, Hockey WA and the David Wirrpanda Foundation.

Nathan plans to work for an architectural firm and eventually fulfil his dream of owning and managing a business. In 2012, he was named the most outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student in Australia.

“Winning the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year Award made me very proud, especially representing my culture on the national stage.

“Meeting all the other candidates from all around Australia was something I will never forget. We all have different stories, but we have all shown that education is the key to unlocking so many doors,” he said.

“I want to be a role model for other Indigenous young people, and show them they can do it too. The help is out there – it’s just a matter of believing in yourself,” Nathan said.

ArtIStIc SPIrIt

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TAFE NSW - Riverina Institute encompasses a network of 20 campuses spread across 154 000 square kilometres of the Riverina-Murray region in southern New South Wales.

Areas of study at the Institute include business and information technology, community and health services, primary industries and natural resources and 27 specialist trades. Altogether there are 559 programs, with many of its regional-based learners benefitting from its innovative distance learning programs.

The Institute’s highly respected ‘Integrated Programs’, offered in conjunction with universities, provide its students unique articulation pathways to university, enabling graduates to gain multiple qualifications from diploma to degree in as little as three years.

Close relationships with schools are enabling its future students to plan career pathways from school, to the Institute, to university, empowering its graduates with the skills they need to build sustainable careers.

Operating to meet the current and future training demands of individuals and industry, the Institute prides itself on its ability to respond to client and market needs through its innovative approaches in training and assessment. The Institute’s footprint extends beyond the boundaries of the region and has an ever growing national market presence.

Established in 2005 by three former carpenters, Blue Dog Training is a registered training organisation currently boasting approximately 25 000 short course enrolments and 1500 Australian Apprentices. Nationally recognised training is provided in subject areas ranging from engineering, carpentry and concreting to numeracy.

With a firm belief that training can be delivered to suit the learner, the employer and the industry, Blue Dog Training prides itself on its tailored and cost-effective approach to training which has been the foundation for strong growth and business success for its seven years of operation.

The company’s flexible and responsive training methods and comprehensive apprentice training and tracking system allows much of the ‘classroom’, or theory side of the training, to be completed online.

Blue Dog Training has recently expanded into offering a number of short courses including Workplace Health and Safety courses and White Card certifications where the company offers students the training needed to enter construction sites.

TAFE NSW - Riverina Institutenew South wales

Blue Dog TrainingQueensland

Large Training Provider of the Year

fInAlIStS

Challenger Institute of Technology offers over 450 courses to more than 23 000 regional and metropolitan students across an area spanning 6 220 square kilometres across Western Australia.

Serving such a geographically spread population, Challenger is focused on providing opportunities for students to build rewarding and successful careers, and for those already in the workforce, to build new skills and to unlock their full potential.

“Challenger’s purpose is to provide a pathway to a better future for everyone

and we are passionate about people learning new

skills and improving their employment prospects,”

Chief Executive Officer Liz Harris said.

One of the key ways it does this is through its partnerships

with industry.

“We are committed to the needs of industry and we work closely

with more than 400 community and business partners, including in oil

and gas, health, maritime, hospitality and construction, to build a skilled and

productive workforce and to fill labour shortages,” Liz said.

Testament to this commitment is Challenger’s partnership with St John of

God Hospital, which began in 2008 with the hospital-based delivery of the Diploma

in Nursing (Enrolled).

The success of this project led to the development of an Australian-first advanced

diploma specialising in anaesthetic nursing.

The program adds to Challenger’s comprehensive portfolio of nursing courses and meets St John of God Hospital’s expansion needs for nursing competencies in anaesthetics. In March 2012 the partnership was further strengthened with the opening of Challenger’s state-of-the-art nurse training facility near the hospital in the Murdoch Health Precinct.

“By working with industry to deliver this type of tailored training, innovative programs are developed that provide a flexible, industry relevant experience for students that leads to employment outcomes” Liz said.

With a continuous focus on innovation, excellence and tailored learning solutions, Challenger has accumulated many awards for forging diverse partnerships across industries, nationally and internationally, as well as local communities.

Challenger was named the Large Training Provider of the Year at the 2012 Australian Training Awards. Liz Harris said the win was a tremendous achievement for the organisation.

“Winning this award is absolutely fantastic. Most importantly for our staff, who work tirelessly and are incredibly committed to providing the best service they possibly can to the students, industry and the community that we serve,” Liz said.

Challenger Institute of Technology western australia

Large Training Provider of the Yearthe large training provider of the year award is presented to a registered training organisation with more than 1500 students for outstanding achievement in all aspects of the delivery of vocational education and training (vet).

UP to the chAllenge

“Challenger’s purpose is to provide a pathway to a better future for everyone and we are passionate about people learning new skills and improving their job prospects.”Liz Harris

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“I sometimes pinch myself that I have come this far in only two years. But I feel ready and able to tackle whatever challenges happen in the future.”Alistair Keller

Jessica Taggartnew South wales certificate iii in health Services assistance

Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year

rUnner-UP

The sixth generation in his family to undertake a career on the land, 18-year-old South Australian Alistair Keller, suspects there is a farming gene or two in his DNA.

“Farming livestock has always been what I wanted to do,” Alistair said.

“I was not going to stay on for Year 11 and 12, I just wanted to get right into it. I’d been farming right through my childhood. When I heard

about Australian School-based Apprenticeships I

thought it sounded like a great choice for me.”

Alistair was offered an Australian School-based

Apprenticeship by farmer, Howard (Rowdy) Bastian and with

the support of Booleroo Centre District School, Statewide Group

Training, Regional Skills Training and Trade Schools for the Future, he

completed his training at the end of 2012.

“Working and training on the farm has enabled me to gain an understanding of

the industry that is hard to learn from text books,” Alistair said

“I had a good agriculture teacher at my school, and that combined with the industry

experience helped me see the full picture.”

Alistair’s two-year apprenticeship saw him learn innovative farming practices and expand

his knowledge and understanding of the industry. His work includes training cattle and

sheep dogs, breeding a wide range of show poultry, cropping, shearing, judging rams or fleeces, raising sheep and working with cattle.

“There is no substitute to what I learned on the farm, in the shearing sheds and in the sale yards and as a consequence I became far better prepared for managing a business,” he said.

“I sometimes pinch myself that I have come this far in only two years. But I feel ready and able to tackle whatever challenges happen in the future.”

Alistair’s employer Rowdy was impressed with his trustworthy nature, natural ability, hard work and dedication and offered Alistair a partnership in a new business. BK Livestock Services will start in early 2013 and specialise in animal husbandry, mustering, yard work and crutching.

Alistair thinks his late grandfather would be proud of his achievements.

“Grandpa Hughes had many skills that I have tried to perfect,” Alistair said.

“His best skill was blade shearing which really captured my imagination. I now demonstrate blade shearing to others, together with showing and parading award-winning cattle and merino sheep.”

Alistair was named the Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year at the 2012 Australian Training Awards and is now an Australian Apprenticeships Ambassador for the Australian Government.

“My Australian School-based Apprenticeship allowed me to gain a nationally recognised qualification and my Year 12 Certificate,” he said

“It was a great experience and I want to tell as many people as I can in my position to give it a go – it has got me further than I could have ever imagined.”

Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year the australian School-based apprentice of the year award is awarded to a student who is undertaking a certificate iii or above qualification as a part time australian School-based apprentice. the award recognises the student’s commitment to their formal studies at school and in the workplace.

Alistair Keller South australia certificate iii in agriculture

BUSIneSS owner At 18

Jessica Taggart first started thinking about a career in health care when her younger sister was born with complex congenital heart disease. Witnessing first-hand the treatment and support the healthcare professionals provided, she realised this was the type of work where she could make a valuable contribution.

A house captain and prefect at Tamworth High School, Jessica is key member of the student representative council and participates regularly in many local Indigenous events for the school and her district.

A well rounded individual, Jessica’s extracurricular activities include volleyball, swimming, athletics, soccer and touch football. According to her TAFE teachers, for someone of such a young age, Jessica demonstrates a highly competent manner in communication, teamwork, problem solving, initiative and enterprise, planning and organisation, technology and learning skills.

Jessica wishes to go on to pursue a career as a registered nurse or doctor once she completes her Australian School-based Apprenticeship.

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Since its establishment in 1996, the Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) has earned national recognition as Australia’s leading educator for the computer game development and 3D digital industries.

AIE has grown significantly in its 16 years of operation, with campuses in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra. Offering nationally recognised qualifications from certificate through to the advanced diploma levels, AIE provides cutting edge, hands-on, nationally recognised training.

Graduates of AIE continue to be instrumental in building innovative interactive entertainment industries across Australia and internationally, with many of its alumni working in some of the world’s most prestigious gaming companies.

AIE is involved in consulting with both government and other education institutions on policy and content for the gaming industry. In 2005, the company organised Australia’s first academic and secondary schools summit on games education.

Adding to its unique industry links and enviable employment record, AIE is at the forefront of educational practice in Australia, winning numerous state and national training awards.

MTA Group Training SchemeSouth australia

Academy of Interactive Entertainmentaustralian capital territory

Technical and scientific careers in Australia play a significant role in the safety, quality and compliance of many industry sectors. From the food industry to the minerals and resources sector, there are approximately 695 000 Australians employed in these highly important occupations across Australia.

With an acute understanding of the importance of industry relevant training in these areas, Western Australia-based LabTech Training (LTT) provides

high quality, training solutions for the laboratory and resources industries nationally.

Recognised for its outstanding training provision

at a national level, LTT was named the Small Training

Provider of the Year at the 2012 Australian Training Awards.

“We believe that the strength of our company is demonstrated

by our ability to work flexibly with organisations to provide high quality

on-the-job training directly in the workplace. This has enabled us to

deliver quality assured qualifications, achieve high completion rates and

continuously satisfy our clients,” Company Director, Simon Gazia said.

LTT’s state-of-the-art training facility in Perth provides its students the highest

standards of education utilising cutting edge technologies, ensuring that graduates

are confident with the latest industry equipment.

“We train laboratory technicians and technical officers for employment in commercial testing

and servicing laboratories across a wide field

of industries, from metals, minerals and oil and gas testing to forensics, food testing and biotechnology.

“Students can study at work, or we provide substantial online delivery. Our trainers visit even the most remote locations across the state, and nationally, to ensure that every client receives the support needed to maximise outcomes,” Simon said.

With extensive national and international experience in laboratory science and vocational education and training, the company is at the forefront of employment-based training in Western Australia.

LTT is committed to continuous improvement through the use of new technologies, e-learning and the development of supportive and flexible learning environments.

“We were encouraged for a number of years to enter the Western Australian Training Awards. When we did this year, it was an amazing achievement to win at the state level. To even be short listed for the Australian Training Awards was also significant. But to win nationally, our team was ecstatic.

“With laboratory operations experiencing skills shortages, this is a great acknowledgement for what we do. We hope our win helps to shine the light on the industries that employ laboratory technicians and encourage others into these rewarding and important careers,” Simon said.

LabTech Trainingwestern australia

Small Training Provider of the Year

fInAlIStS

Small Training Provider of the Year the Small training provider of the year award is presented to a registered training organisation with fewer than 1500 students that has demonstrated outstanding achievement in all aspects of the delivery of vocational education and training (vet).

trAInIng on the cUttIng edge

Celebrating 30 years in operation this year, the Motor Trade Association (MTA) of South Australia Inc. is the peak body for the retail motor industry in South Australia and is the only employer-based organisation in that state dedicated to protecting and preserving the interest of the retail motor industry.

Through its subsidiary, the MTA Group Training Scheme, MTA carries out its mission to enhance the motor industry though the provision of the best trained people and member services, operating the largest automotive group training scheme in Australia.

Currently employing 532 Australian Apprentices across a wide range of automotive trades, MTA continually looks for different and creative ways to train its apprentices and trainees. In 2011, MTA established an innovative program for its Australian Apprentices with the premier motorsport event in Adelaide, the Clipsal 500. This program has enabled MTA’s Australian Apprentices to go on to obtain full time employment with race teams.

“We believe that the strength of our company is demonstrated by our ability to work flexibly with organisations to provide high quality on-the-job training directly in the workplace.”Simon Gazia

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“Since gaining my Diploma, I feel fulfilled, and I now know I’m on the right path. It’s changed my life. It could change yours too.”Gloria Davison

Stephen Moorewestern australia advanced diploma of Stage management

Vocational Student of the Year

rUnner-UP

Gloria Davison always thought she would become a nurse. However, after leaving school in Year 10 to join the workforce, her dream of nursing seemed to move further away with each passing year.

During her 20s, she was enjoying a financially rewarding career in call centre management, and for a while, she tried university as a mature-aged student.

“When I initially tried nursing at university, I really struggled and found the process very impersonal,”

Gloria said.

“As a mature aged student with very little academic

background, I just found it too fast-paced.”

After much self-reflection on the experience of returning to

study, she decided it was now or never to fulfil her passion for

nursing. This time, she would pursue her studies through

vocational education and training (VET). She started with a Certificate

III in Aged Care and then progressed to a Diploma of Nursing.

“It was at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) that I found my

groove,” Gloria said.

“The teachers all had a great deal of experience in the industry and I enjoyed

being able to draw on the experience of real nurses and assessors. The training

was hands-on with real-time assessment in

hospitals. The whole experience of the diploma has left me feeling confident in my ability to work in the real world of healthcare.”

The diverse subjects have helped Gloria discover her passion for mental health.

Whilst studying for her Diploma, Gloria took part in an Australian Government roundtable about VET participation, where she spoke of the challenges of balancing finances and family life whilst studying full-time.

“I believe the introduction of HECS-style loans for diploma level qualifications is a fantastic development for the VET sector,” Gloria said.

“I am a real advocate for VET, and I feel this is a step in the right direction and will help so many people to think about gaining qualifications.”

Gloria is now studying an Advanced Diploma of Nursing (Mental Health and Alcohol and other Drugs Nursing) and was named the most outstanding vocational student in Australia at the 2012 Australian Training Awards.

“I had dreamed about being a nurse or paramedic for many years,” Gloria said.

“I was 30 years old when I thought, I am going to try my hardest to reach my dream. Being rewarded for living my dream and becoming the Vocational Student of the Year, it’s just been a wonderful year. If you have a dream but you are afraid to try for whatever reason, just remember it’s not going to hurt to try, to give it your best shot.

“Since gaining my Diploma, I feel fulfilled, and I now know I’m on the right path. It’s changed my life. It could change yours too.”

Gloria Davisonaustralian capital territory diploma of nursing

Vocational Student of the Year the vocational Student of the year award recognises an outstanding student’s achievement in a course of study leading to a nationally recognised qualification.

how glorIA got her ‘groove’ BAck

From a young age Stephen Moore had a passion for all things theatrical. However, over the years his interest changed from being in the spotlight to being behind it and exploring the technical production and delivery of performances.

Stephen decided to study stage management at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. This meant a move from Victoria to Perth, which was a challenge, but Stephen knew the Academy’s close industry connections offered a direct pathway into a theatrical career.

Stephen also knew performing arts industry experience would expand his education and opportunities. In addition to tours and training sessions arranged by the Academy, he has undertaken numerous placements and voluntary roles with major theatrical productions and performance companies in Perth and interstate.

Stephen is exploring education options with a Bachelor of Performing Arts degree as the end result.

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Guy Truss has worked for 23 years as a vocational education and training practitioner, with the past 12 years focusing on the design and delivery of e-learning.

As a principal lecturer at South West Institute of Technology (SWIT), Guy’s roles include principal lecturer fitting and machining, e-learning coordinator/mentor, member of the SWIT Governing Council and Audit Committee and SWIT representative on the Training Delivery System Sub-Committee. Guy is passionate about bringing e-learning technologies to the forefront of the sector and helping to position SWIT as a leader in e-learning delivery.

He is recognised as SWIT’s e-learning champion, providing more than 200 staff with guidance and leadership. In 2011 Guy was invited to moderate a virtual ‘think tank’ (via Elluminate) on the National Foundation Skills Strategy for the Australian Government.

Guy Trusswestern australia

“I love the fact that I am able to make a difference by empowering people to realise that receiving a qualification creates so many opportunities for them.” Fiona FrenchWith the opportunity to go to work each day and

instil knowledge and self-belief in her students, 2012 VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year Fiona French believes she has the best job in the world.

Fiona holds the dual roles of Advanced Skills Teacher and VET Coordinator at the Tasmanian Academy’s Hellyer College located in the coastal town of Burnie, north-west Tasmania.

“I strive to inspire my students to believe in themselves and their abilities and, importantly, equip them

with outstanding technical skills and knowledge

congruent with industry requirements,” Fiona said.

As a former hotel manager, Fiona switched to a career in

teaching and training 16 years ago. The move has given her

immense satisfaction, and the ability to live her dream while

working with a diverse range of students in a variety of roles within

the private and public VET sectors.

“I just love the VET sector. I love the fact that I am able to make a

difference by empowering people to realise that receiving a qualification

creates so many opportunities for them. VET provides wonderful prospects for people of all ages,” Fiona said.

Fiona believes the success of any student is contingent on the quality of teaching.

“VET teacher/trainers must be experts in their vocational field and exude passion and enthusiasm,” she said.

“The number one rule for me as a teacher/trainer is the value of relationships. You must foster good relationships with your students, they need to believe in you – and you in them.”

Fiona also highlights the importance of strong relationships with industry.

“I keep up to date by maintaining close links and adapting my teaching practice to the changing industry. I encompass any opportunities for my students to work with industry for mutual benefit.”

Fiona was delighted to be named the most outstanding VET Teacher/Trainer in Australia in 2012.

“It was an amazing experience to win the award,” she said.

“It was a privilege to be in the same category as the other inspirational VET Teacher/Trainers from across Australia and to hear their stories. It is reward enough for me to go to work and help individuals realise their career dreams, to win this provides me with the knowledge that I am doing a good job and making a difference in the VET sector.”

Fiona has also found the time to continue her own further education, completing a Bachelor of Adult and Vocational Education with Honours in 2006 and has recently started her Masters of Education.

“I believe education not only opens many doors, but it opens up the mind and one should never cease learning and being educated.”

VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year

rUnner-UP

VET Teacher/Trainer of the Yearthe vet teacher/trainer of the year award is presented to a vet teacher/trainer who has demonstrated excellence and innovation in the delivery of nationally recognised training to students at a registered training organisation, or in partnership with a registered training organisation.

Fiona French tasmania

the BeSt joB In the world

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In 2010, AgriFood Skills Australia collaborated with the Narrabri Shire Council and the Narrabri Chamber of Commerce to implement Make It Work: a regionally driven skills and workforce strategy which, in addition to training, included equipping local enterprise owners to become ‘employers of choice’, and delivering the cross-industry Skilling and Sharing Workers Locally programs.

Tailored to the needs of the labour market in the Narrabri region, Make It Work was predicated on local business and community leaders taking action on ideas generated at the AgriFood-led 2009 North West Jobs Summit to attract, skill and retain the local workforce. Over 80 regional employers attended the Summit and agreed to establish a working group to drive the regional pilot.

An independent assessment of the central west NSW strategy by ACIL Tasman reported an increase of 3.2 per cent in labour productivity and a 33 per cent reduction in outward migration.

IS Australia is a registered training organisation providing nationally recognised training and services across a broad range of programs including short courses, licensing, assessments, corporate training and Australian Apprenticeships.

In 2010, IS Australia led a unique collaboration with Catterall Brothers Building Services and Career Employment Group to leverage recent investment in construction in Indigenous housing to create the Anangu Pitjantjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands Construction Program.

Supported by the Australian and South Australian Governments, the program was delivered by means of mobile training campuses across the far reaching communities to deliver technical trade skills to local Anangu job seekers looking to gain on-the-job training and employment.

IS Australia in collaboration with Catterall Brothers Building Services and Career Employment GroupSouth australia

Industry Collaboration Award

fInAlIStS

Over the past decade, the minerals and resources sector in northern Australia has enjoyed significant growth, and has proved a popular career choice for people wanting to enjoy well-paid and personally rewarding career opportunities.

While many individuals have travelled to live in the Northern Territory to share in the bounty of the

mining boom, the Minerals Council of Australia – NT Division (MCA NT) has been passionate about ensuring

local Indigenous people from regional and remote

communities in the NT can also enjoy the opportunities

afforded by the mining sector’s success.

“Ensuring people in geographically isolated rural and regional areas of

the Territory have the opportunity to train for a career in mining is a

priority for the Minerals Council.

“With significant government and industry support, the Indigenous Pre-

Employment Program was formed to help realise these opportunities,”

said Chris Natt, Training and Education Coordinator for MCA NT.

To deliver the appropriate training required for this program, MCA NT collaborated with

the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education (BIITE).

Adrian Mitchell, Director of the BIITE explains the work of the program.

“The pre-employment program involves working closely with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, and focusing on developing in them the life skills, self-esteem and confidence they need to start a job.

“With the Indigenous Pre-Employment Program, we encourage leadership, teach effective teamwork methods, and focus on literacy and numeracy needs so people can enter the workforce with confidence. Some of our participants have never formally engaged with education before,” Adrian said.

The program re-creates a mining camp environment to assist trainees to understand the unique shift work of the mining industry. The participants work 12 hour shifts on a two-week roster with a mixture of on and off-the-job training. They leave the course job-ready and equipped with relevant work place and life skills.

“We’ve had great success with the program, and are transforming lives. Almost 80 indigenous Australians have been through the training program since July 2010. Companies who have employed trainees from the program include Energy Resources Australia, Newmont Tanami Operations, BHP GEMCO, Territory Resources and HNC Australian Resources,” Chris Natt said.

The successful collaboration was recognised at a national level at the 2012 Australian Training Awards, winning the Industry Collaboration Award.

“The award provides substantial national recognition for MCA and BIITE but also for everybody’s efforts over the last few years to improve the employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from the training we deliver in the Northern Territory,” Adrian Mitchell said.

Minerals Council of Australia – Northern Territory Division in collaboration with Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education northern territory

Industry Collaboration Awardthe industry collaboration award will be presented for exemplary skills development collaboration between an employer or industry body and, at least, one other organisation.

trAnSformIng lIveS In the toP end

AgriFood Skills Australia in collaboration with the Narrabri Shire Council and the Narrabri Chamber of Commercenew South wales

“We’ve had great success with the program, and are transforming lives...” Adrian Mitchell

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The Australian College of Applied Education has delivered nationally recognised training courses for nearly 23 years. Expanding from its beginnings providing high level vocational education and training to the hospitality and tourism industries, the College now includes business and accounting courses and has won a number of awards including the Western Australian Tourism Award for Education and Training.

With 179 international students from 54 countries attending the College, staff and students celebrate the College’s cultural diversity through multicultural activities including social outings, charity drives and government initiatives such as Harmony Day.

A unique feature of the College’s programs is its holistic approach to training and assessment, delivering programs as unit clusters, embodied in subjects. Students learn in live environments that match real world expectations, with a fully functional restaurant and bar and commercial and patisserie kitchen on campus, ensuring graduates are confident problem solvers, highly skilled and job ready.

Holmesglen is Victoria’s largest vocational education and training provider. Operating seven days a week, Holmesglen delivers in excess of 12 million contact hours each year to more than 50 000 students studying programs from Certificate II to Bachelor. In 2011, Holmesglen had more than 5500 international students from over 100 countries.

Holmesglen has relationships with a number of training institutions in China, whereby students can work towards a diploma awarded by Holmesglen in China and, after graduation, can continue degree-level studies at Holmesglen.

Holmesglen has relationships with training providers in Singapore, India and Mauritius, and provides language programs and work experience to Japanese tourism and hospitality students.

Holmesglen employs approximately 400 education consultants from more than 70 countries who undertake a comprehensive application process for each international student, including a face-to-face meeting.

Holmesglen provides heavily subsidised activities and excursions for international students as a mechanism for discovering Australia and meeting new people.

Holmesglen Institute of TAFEvictoria

International Training Provider of the Year

fInAlIStS

Providing educational pathways to students from all over the world for over 25 years is an area of pride for the inaugural winner of the International Training Provider of the Year, TAFE NSW – Sydney Institute. In 2012, more than 3600 international students, from 93 countries, undertook training at the Institute.

Staff at the Institute have worked hard over the last two years to develop partnerships with

training providers and industry both in Australia and all over the world,

while also remaining focussed on providing

the best educational opportunities for its students

and being cognisant of the challenges that can come with

living away from family in a new country.

“We are incredibly passionate about each and every one of our

international students, making sure they have the best possible

experience with us,” said Heather Roberts, Director, International

Business.

“We provide fantastic support for these students to ensure every part of their

education is catered for and also, living away from home, knowing that they have

someone to go to and someone to help and support them.”

A dedicated team of international student support staff is available to assist

international students maximise their educational and social experiences at the Institute.

David Riordan, Institute Director, said that the domestic and international partnerships the Institute has developed provide students with flexible options, as they can assist students to finish some of their training overseas before having the opportunity to live in Australia.

The Institute’s vision of being ‘progressive and influential – to change lives’ is brought to fruition through a curriculum that provides the opportunity to study vocational and higher education courses ranging from Certificate to Bachelor level. There are 132 vocational programs to choose from, while 10 English language programs assist those for whom English is not their first language.

The Sydney Institute has developed a number of positive relationships and partnerships with training providers in Abu Dhabi, China and India. These relationships have also resulted in 20 international companies willing to offer work placements to Institute students and graduates.

The Institute’s Intercultural Awareness Program encourages staff to participate in a range of learning activities related to intercultural awareness, and International Student Coordinators are bilingual to facilitate effective communication with international students.

Ms Roberts expressed how pleased she was that the Institute was the first winner of the award.

“We are incredibly excited and proud to win this award, to be recognised for all the hard work that we do in offering exceptional service to our international students,” she said.

TAFE NSW - Sydney Institute new South wales

International Training Provider of the Yearthe international training provider of the year award is presented to a registered training organisation that has demonstrated outstanding achievement in all aspects of the delivery of vocational education and training to full-fee paying international students.

oPenIng UP A world of PoSSIBIlItIeS

Australian College of Applied Educationwestern australia

“We are incredibly passionate about each and every one of our international students, making sure they have the best possible experience with us.”Heather Roberts


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With over 17 000 students across four state-of-the-art campuses, Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE (Sunshine Coast TAFE) is recognised as the largest provider of high-quality, sustainable, nationally recognised qualifications on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Its vision is to become a leader in education for sustainability through the Sunshine Coast region and beyond.

Sunshine Coast TAFE’s approach to sustainability has become one of the core elements of its operations. It provides nationally recognised training to students and offers a unique understanding of sustainability, as evidenced by its operations being fully carbon neutral.

Sunshine Coast TAFE was the first education provider in Australia to be certified ‘carbon neutral’ under Low Carbon Australia’s Carbon Neutral Program.

Sunshine Coast TAFE has also recently opened its Sustainability Discovery Centre, which provides a variety of educational multimedia and interactive activities aimed at raising wider community awareness of sustainability.

TAFE NSW – Northern Sydney Institutenew South wales

Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFEQueensland

Skills for Sustainability — Educational Institution Award

fInAlIStSTAFE NSW – North Coast Institute’s receiving the 2012 Skills for Sustainability - Educational Institution Award comes after the Institute has spent more than 13 years working with businesses and regional partners to establish, implement and maintain sustainability initiatives across the NSW North Coast, where the natural environment features clean beaches, sub-tropical rainforest and mountains.

The Institute believes that environmental sustainability is everyone’s

responsibility.

“It’s really important that industry and the

community are engaged in sustainability learning.

It can’t just be left to the education providers,” said

Geoff Baldry, Director of TAFE Services.

The Institute has introduced a Diploma of Sustainability

course as well as a range of sustainability initiatives across all

17 of its campuses, including the generation of clean energy through

solar systems, an annual investment strategy for on-ground sustainability

projects and participates in a number of carpooling programs.

“We have to work across large distances - both our staff and our students might be out in communities, not accessible

to a TAFE campus. That impacts our sustainability in terms of travel as well

and we’ve had to think about ways of moving people around without big environmental impacts,” explained Alicia Bales, Faculty Ecological Sustainability Project Officer.

“We’ve had excellent success with embedding sustainability practices across our organisation. All of our staff through all of our campuses, understand the importance of sustainability - it’s fantastic,” said Mr Baldry.

The Institute is also concerned with the needs of the communities in which its campuses are located, and believes that education of residents is vital.

“We have some highly disadvantaged communities in our region as well, who have large issues with managing electricity prices in both businesses and households, so energy literacy and energy efficiency is a high priority for us, to support our region,” said Ms Bales.

Thrilled with being named the winner, the Institute was quick to recognise and acknowledge its partners.

“The award is such an accolade for all our staff, our industry partners and our regional partners,” said Ms Bales.

At TAFE NSW – Northern Sydney Institute, sustainability has been embedded into every aspect of the Institute’s operations, including courses and training delivery, business operations, staff development, governance and communication processes.

A pioneer of conservation and land management programs since the 1970s, the Institute provides 450 nationally recognised programs to cover 52 000 students across northern Sydney. Within all it faculties, sustainability is a key performance measure.

The Institute’s environmental management system is certified to ISO14001 standards, and the Institute now extends its 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.

As an education provider, the Institute is committed to enabling others to move beyond a focus on basic standards and mandatory requirements to make a deep commitment to sustainable practice.

The Institute’s influence in sustainability goes beyond teaching to the sustainable behaviour of staff, students and industry clients, creating a multiplier effect for a more sustainable society.

It’S eASy BeIng green

Skills for Sustainability — Educational Institution Awardthe Skills for Sustainability – educational institution award recognises an education provider that demonstrates outstanding achievement in delivering qualifications and skills in sustainability, through programs, products and practices in nationally recognised training.

TAFE NSW – North Coast Institute new South wales

“It’s really important that industry and the community are engaged in sustainability learning. It can’t just be left to the education providers.”Geoff Baldry


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Macmahon is a leading Australian contract mining and construction company, with projects throughout Australia and an expanding international footprint. For almost 50 years, Macmahon has delivered many of Australia’s largest multi-disciplinary mining and construction projects.

Macmahon recognises that a skilled and capable workforce is essential to its ongoing success. As a major employer of Australian Apprentices, Macmahon is committed to providing outstanding employment opportunities through the company’s diverse training schemes. These include pre-employment training, formal traineeships and apprenticeships, fast track training and the National Apprenticeships Program to recognise prior learning to build capacity in its skilled workforce.

Macmahon’s apprenticeship program forms a critical part of its business. With a commitment to encouraging local recruitment and training, adult apprenticeships and a focused and highly successful program for Indigenous Australians, Macmahon’s specialised and tailored training is a key step to ensuring the company maintains the right balance of skills and experience across its operations. Macmahon’s employment and training programs provide employees with meaningful careers in the mining and construction sectors.

Essential Energy builds, operates and maintains Australia’s largest electricity network, providing essential services to more than 800 000 homes and businesses across 95 per cent of New South Wales, as well as parts of northern Victoria and southern Queensland.

With 4600 employees based in 144 essential service centres and depots, five regional offices and two business centres, Essential Energy is one of the largest employers in regional New South Wales. It is also a leader in safety, with the lowest Lost Time Injury Frequency Rates of any electricity distributor in the state.

Some of Essential Energy’s challenges include an ageing workforce, skill shortages and major infrastructure builds. A focus on training and workforce development helps Essential Energy to meet these challenges. In particular, its highly successful, competency-based Apprentice Training Program has helped with the education of around 1140 Australian Apprentices since 2001.

Essential Energy’s Apprentice Training Program meets business needs and has an outstanding 97 per cent completion rate. Essential Energy believes the depth and quality of the program has helped the organisation in its goal to provide meaningful career opportunities in regional communities.

Macmahon Contractorswestern australia

Essential Energynew South wales

Australian Apprenticeships — Employer Award

fInAlIStSThe mantra ‘build it and they will come’ has never been applied more appropriately than for Broome’s B&J Building Consultants and Steel Supplies.

B&J Building attributes its excellent reputation to its skilled and committed workforce which it supports by providing a safe and rewarding working environment. Indeed, people have been travelling hundreds of kilometres from the Pilbara and Kimberley regions for the past 15 years just to

gain employment with the building company.

At the 2012 Australian Training Awards, B & J Building was rewarded

for its commitment, receiving the Australian

Apprenticeships – Employer Award.

B&J Building’s Managing Partner, Paul Watling, said the

award was terrific recognition for northern Western Australia’s

largest steel house component fabricator.

“To win our first Australian Training Award is a fantastic honour and recognises our commitment to

developing Australian Apprentices into highly-skilled employees,” Mr Watling

said.

“B&J Building has been committed to Australian Apprenticeships for more than

15 years.

“In recent times, we have recognised the need to provide more avenues for our staff to start and continue training.

“We have also up-skilled our supervisors while introducing a range of support methods for staff.”

B&J Building provides Australian Apprenticeships in boiler-making and carpentry, and traineeships in drafting, low-rise structural framing and business administration.

The company believes the quality and innovation of its products are intrinsically linked with the level of skills within its workforce, and is committed to working with government, industry, schools and registered training organisations to continuously improve its training practices.

B&J Building Consultants and Steel Supplies western australia

Australian Apprenticeships — Employer Awardthe australian apprenticeships — employer award recognises those employers who have made innovative improvements to training australian apprentices.

conStrUctIon In the kImBerley

“To win our first Australian Training Award is a fantastic honour and recognises our commitment to developing Australian Apprentices into highly-skilled employees.”Paul Watling


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Ramsay Health Care has a strong record of success in vocational education and training, and provides a wide range of nationally recognised qualifications to its staff.

Ramsay Health Care is committed to raising the standard of patient care through training, and has a range of innovative and successful programs, specially tailored for a wide range of individuals.

Ramsay Health Care is currently implementing an industry-led high school work placement program, called NextGenPlus, to provide training and employment opportunities for senior high school students. Its programs aim to give young people a chance to see the joy in helping others, gain employment, and experience a diversity of career pathways while still at school.

Ramsay Health Care western australia

St Columban’s CollegeQueensland

School Pathways to VET Award

fInAlIStS

“Whatever our students want to do, our aim is to make sure we can provide them a pathway to lead them along in the direction they would like to take.”Delaney Nugent

Taking an innovative approach to the provision of a range of vocational Certificate courses in addition to the standard curriculum, Moranbah State High School in Central Queensland is assisting its students to overcome the barriers to training that often come with being geographically isolated.

The coal mining industry is literally on the school’s doorstep, but the educators at Moranbah realise the

importance of providing training in a range of fields and have developed partnerships with a number of local RTOs and

businesses, as well as Queensland Government

agencies, Industry Skills Councils and several industry

organisations.

“Not all of our students want to go into the mining industry so

we’ve had to make sure that our pathways provide for students

who want to go into retail, business, hospitality, hairdressing,”

said Delaney Nugent of Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, one

of Moranbah’s partners. “Whatever our students want to do, our aim is

to make sure we can provide them a pathway to lead them along in the

direction they would like to take.”

Through the school’s own Trade Training Centre, the Coalfields Training Excellence

Centre, students have the opportunity to undertake a range of training options,

ensuring they are job-ready upon completion.

“Our program helps provide apprentices coming out into their first year that are way above a normal skill area. Our kids are work-ready, they are ready to get on the job and they know what they’re doing. They’re not a safety risk - they are ready to work on the first day,” said Moranbah’s Business Development Manager, Melissa Westcott.

“It is such an honour to be recognised – it makes all the years of hard work pay off,” said Ms Nugent.”We’ve done a lot of things that are new, and it has been a struggle to get people to understand that we want to do something a little bit different. It really makes it all pay off to be recognised at this level.”

School Pathways to VET Awardthe School pathways to vet award recognises eligible organisations including schools, registered training organisations, industry bodies and employers that have collaboratively delivered an excellent vocational education and training (vet) program to secondary school students.

Moranbah State High School Queensland

ISolAtIon no BArrIer

St Columban’s College is a Catholic secondary college in Caboolture, south-east Queensland. Of its 900 students, over 100 are enrolled in Australian School-based Apprenticeships. In 2012, more than 90 per cent of its students will graduate with nationally recognised qualification.

The College’s participation and completion rates in vocational education and training (VET) have doubled over the last three years, an achievement attributed to its innovative and engaging VET program and resources.

‘Every Student Every Success’ is the message underlying its cutting-edge VET program, which offers 17 qualifications in 10 industry areas. In fact, the College and neighbouring schools employ 24 Australian School-based Apprentices in five industry areas.

All students are encouraged to be multi-skilled and have multi-credited pathways. Ensuring its students have a good mix of academic and vocational participation is the key to the College’s ongoing success.


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David Arnoldnew South wales

Paul TemplerSouth australia

“VET allows people from so many different socio-economic backgrounds to forge wonderful careers and really make great lives for themselves.”Peter Coyne

Crown Melbourne’s Executive General Manager of Human Resources, Peter Coyne, says that winning the 2012 Leadership in Quality Award is wonderful recognition not only of his work, but of the work of the people who have worked both with him and for him over many years.

Overseeing the training and professional development of Crown’s 6500 employees, including 75 apprentices, Mr Coyne says that vocational education and training is vital.

“VET allows people from so many different socio-economic backgrounds to

forge wonderful careers and really make great lives

for themselves.”

Mr Coyne’s training philosophy for Crown

Melbourne stems from his belief in providing training

for careers rather than jobs, showing that the hospitality

industry need not be a casual stop-gap to a career but can in fact

be a career in its own right.

“We see a lot of people who come into the hospitality sector who, for

a whole variety of reasons, just land there, looking for a job. Very quickly,

we try to demonstrate to those young people that you can really have a

fantastic career in hospitality.”

Crown Melbourne operates its own registered training organisation, Crown

College, which provides training across four schools, covering all areas of Crown

Melbourne’s business, from management and security to gaming and food preparation. Training is provided at a range of levels through to tertiary qualifications.

“Hospitality training needs to be supported by fantastic skills development competencies and you need to be working towards a qualification. When we see that shift, from working for a job to working for a career, we see a completely different attitude in the people who work for us,” said Mr Coyne.

“Learning will provide a stepping stone for people to develop wonderful careers in hospitality and take those skills globally. They can travel anywhere in the world and be proud to say that they worked and built those skills in the Australian hospitality environment.”

Mr Coyne’s individual award comes two years after Crown Melbourne won the Employer of the Year Award at the 2010 Australian Training Awards.

Leadership in Quality Awardthe leadership in Quality award recognises eligible individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in promoting and advancing quality to achieve positive outcomes in the vocational education and training sector.

Peter Coyne victoria

from teAcher to mentor

Dave Arnold has been training and mentoring students for over 36 years. Both in his role as Head Teacher of Electrical Programs at TAFE NSW – Western Institute, and in his 28-year history of volunteer involvement with the WorldSkills Australia organisation, Dave has used his considerable knowledge and experience to influence the lives and career paths of many young Australians.

Dave’s focus has been on helping his students to achieve world class skills. Several of Dave’s students have received international recognition for the excellence of their skills, including Ben Houghton, who won a gold medal in electrical installations and was honoured as the world’s best young electrician at the WorldSkills International Competition in London in 2011.

For the many young Australians and others who have come in contact with Dave, he has been much more than a teacher or a trainer – he has been a mentor who has always been willing to give up his time to ensure young apprentices and trainees are provided with the best opportunity to strive for skills excellence.

Paul Templer has been employed as an Apprenticeship and Traineeship Consultant with Career Employment Group, a not-for-profit organisation, since 2006. Working in regional and remote parts of South Australia, he currently engages with 28 different employers and 230 Australian Apprentices, working closely with disengaged youth to successfully connect them with apprenticeships. Many of these students are now progressing towards successful completion of their training and into long term employment.

Paul believes it is extremely important to foster productive relationships with all his stakeholders, in particular schools and employers. He regularly visits schools in the Spencer Gulf to provide career advice and information on vocational education and training pathways, and has been highly successful in engaging with Indigenous youth in this region.

Paul has acquired a number of qualifications through his career, including two trades, and has completed a Diploma of Business (Human Resources), and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Paul is currently enrolled at Charles Darwin University, completing a Bachelor of Education.

Leadership in Quality Award

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A South Australian organisation that provides training, life skills and employability skills to disadvantaged persons has been awarded the 2012 Community Pathways to VET Award.

Bedford Group supports 1800 South Australians with a disability or disadvantage through its Abilities for All program, targeted toward job seekers.

Bedford’s provision of Certificate II training courses and skills training helps its clients to return to the workforce,

undertake further study or commence volunteering

within their communities.

Tricia Murphy of Bedford Group said that the Award

was a great honour as the organisation is very proud of the

program and it was great to be recognised.

“This is a unique program in South Australia,” she said. “There is a 90 per cent completion rate, mainly

because through our program the participants get a lot of support they

wouldn’t normally get with other avenues of training.

“This is not just giving them accredited training, it is also giving them the life skills and the employability skills they need to actually retain a job and have that job sustainable for them.”

In 2012, Bedford helped 175 job seekers undertake training at the Certificate II level through the Abilities for All program across a range of areas including community services, children’s services and business administration.

Run through local community centres and with work experience provided through local businesses, Abilities for All has a strong community focus.

Ms Murphy believes that the mentoring provided to learners both during and after the training is what sets the program apart and makes it so successful.

“That’s why the program works so well – it’s unique.”

Community Pathways to VET Awardthe community pathways to vet award recognises community-based, not-for-profit organisations that demonstrate excellence and/or innovation in delivering pre-vocational education and training (vet) to their local community. the award acknowledges the importance of an integrated system of quality training that offers multiple pathways to vet, particularly for hard-to-reach learners.

Bedford Group South australia

creAtIng oPPortUnItIeS

“This is not just giving them accredited training, it is also giving them the life skills and the employability skills they need to actually retain a job and have that job sustainable for them.”Tricia Murphy

Following consultation with the adult and community education sector, it was

agreed that the Community Pathways to VET Award be presented for the final

time in 2012.

From 2013, the excellence in language, literacy and numeracy Practice Award will be presented.

This award will recognise innovation and excellence by an individual involved

in improving English language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) skills in an

educational, community or workplace context.

Applications can be made by individuals or organisations (eg colleagues,

professional bodies, students, employers, industry or community

representatives); or through self-nomination.

For more information, and how to apply, visit australiantrainingawards.gov.au or

phone 13 38 73.

To stay up-to-date with the Australian Training Awards, follow

@AusTrainAwards on twitter.

new AwArd cAtegory for 2013 AUStrAlIAn trAInIng AwArdS

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 2012 Peter Kirby AO 2011 Stella Axarlis AM

AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIPS – EMPLOYER AWARD 2012 B & J Building Consultants and Steel Supplies Western Australia2011 Dardanup Butchering Company Western Australia

LEADERSHIP IN QUALITY AWARD 2012 Peter Coyne Victoria2011 Jeanette Allen New South Wales

COMMUNITY PATHWAYS TO VET AWARD 2012 Bedford Group South Australia2011 Western College New South Wales

SCHOOL PATHWAYS TO VET AWARD 2012 Moranbah State High School Queensland2011 John Forrest Secondary College MPA Skills Partnership Western Australia

SKILLS FOR SUSTAINABILITY – EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION AWARD 2012 TAFE NSW – North Coast Institute New South Wales2011 TAFE NSW – Western Sydney Institute New South Wales

SMALL EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD2012 Comstar Systems Tasmania2011 Murray Bridge Veterinary Clinic South Australia

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD2012 Drakes Supermarkets South Australia2011 Hutchinson Builders Queensland

SMALL TRAINING PROVIDER OF THE YEAR AWARD2012 LabTech Training Western Australia2011 Equalis Pty Ltd New South Wales

LARGE TRAINING PROVIDER OF THE YEAR AWARD2012 Challenger Institute of Technology Western Australia2011 TAFE SA Regional South Australia

INTERNATIONAL TRAINING PROVIDER OF THE YEAR AWARD2012 TAFE NSW – Sydney Institute New South Wales

INDUSTRY COLLABORATION AWARD2012 Minerals Council of Australia in collaboration with Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education Northern Territory2011 SPC ARDMONA in Collaboration with the AMWU and National Food Institute Victoria

VET TEACHER/TRAINER OF THE YEAR AWARD 2012 Fiona French Tasmania2011 Amanda Smith Western Australia

AUSTRALIAN SCHOOL-BASED APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD 2012 Alistair Keller South Australia2011 Jessica Pendlebury Victoria

VOCATIONAL STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD2012 Gloria Davison Australian Capital Territory2011 Vanessa Corbell South Australia

ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD2012 Nathan McGuire Western Australia2011 Joshua Toomey New South Wales

AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICE (TRAINEE) OF THE YEAR AWARD2012 David Failla New South Wales2011 Abbey Lee Sergeant Western Australia

AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD2012 Sara Burke Australian Capital Territory2011 Colin Wilson Victoria

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Lifetime Achievement Awardthe lifetime achievement award is australia’s most prestigious vocational education and training (vet) award. the award is presented to an individual who has an established history of distinguished service and who has made a lasting contribution to vet practice.

the kIrBy effect

It is unlikely that the thousands of Australians undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship realise they are benefiting from reforms to the VET sector proposed by public administrator Peter Kirby nearly 30 years ago.

Recognised as a major policy reformer at both federal and state levels, Peter sadly passed away on

14 March 2012 at age 72. His legacy remains for future generations.

Born in Berkshire, United Kingdom, Peter and his young

family moved to Australia in 1972 on a two-year exchange

posting between the British and Australian Public Service. During

the 1980s, with an established reputation in labour market reform,

education and training, Peter led several inquiries and reviews that

delivered game-breaking changes for the national VET sector.

In 1983, Peter was appointed Chair of the Committee of Inquiry into Labour

Market Programs. The Committee’s final report released in 1985, known now

as the landmark ‘Kirby Report’, set out a new direction for labour market policy in

Australia. Designed to foster policy which would give greater emphasis to the needs

of the individual for access to education and training, its key recommendation resulted in

the establishment of the Australian Traineeship System as a way to help disadvantaged

young people establish themselves in the workforce. The ensuing scheme also extended

honoUr roll

Peter Kirby AO2 june 1939 – 14 march 2012

the traditional apprenticeships model to include more qualification levels in a wider range of occupations. The reforms of this era continue to have a major impact on employment based training arrangements that are available to employers and jobseekers today.

Over the next ten years, Peter led significant Australian and state government reforms until his retirement in 1996. During his retirement he continued to be appointed to chair reviews including, notably, the ministerial review of post-compulsory education and training pathways in Victoria. During this time he also served two terms as Chair of the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER) Board, where he succeeded in making NCVER the key information agency for VET in Australia.

Peter’s key positions and achievements include:• First Assistant Secretary at the Australian

Government’s Department of Employment and Industrial Relations

• Director-General of Employment and TAFE in South Australia

• Secretary of the Victorian Government’s Department of Premier and Cabinet

• Secretary of the Victorian Government’s Department of Education

• President of the Institute of Public Administration Australia in Victoria

• TAFE Gold Medal in 1991• Fellowship of the Australian College of Education• Sir James Darling Medal in 1997• National Fellow of the Institute of Public

Administration Australia in 1998• Chair of the NCVER Board• Officer in the Order of Australia in 2004.

Peter is survived by his wife Sheila and sons Simon and Timothy.

Ben’s StoryBen Standen was the 2011 Tasmanian Apprentice of the Year.

Unexpectedly becoming a father at 16 was the surprise catalyst that propelled Ben to discover his passion for cooking. Now, his career has reached great heights as a qualified chef in one of the state’s best restaurants, Lebrina.

“Growing up, it was never my intention to be a chef. Meals at home were always considered a form of sustenance and never much more. I think because of this I developed a sense of curiosity about food.

“Becoming a father so young, I realised an apprenticeship was a great way to be paid while I trained for a long term career,” Ben said.

With the support of his award winning 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.

Ben has received many awards for his achievements. In addition to his win at the Tasmanian Training Awards in 2011, Ben was the runner-up in the Australian Apprentice of the Year category in the Australian Training Awards the same year. In 2012, Ben was awarded the Australian Overseas Foundation Scholarship and hopes to work in France in the next 12 months.

“It’s exciting to think about all the opportunities ahead, whether it’s travelling and working overseas, owning a business, or further studies. Combined with hard work, an apprenticeship really does make for endless possibilities!” Ben said.

Jessica’s StoryJessica Pendlebury was the 2011 Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year.

At the end of 2012, Jessica passed three significant milestones in her life; she gained her Year 12 Certificate, a nationally recognised qualification

– the completion of her Australian School-based Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing and was accepted into a double degree (Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/ Bachelor of Veterinary Science) at Charles Sturt University.

“There are just so many advantages to completing an Australian School-based Apprenticeship. You learn about your chosen field through TAFE, and then you are able to put your knowledge into practice while you are at work - it makes learning easier and more interesting,” Jessica said.

As an Australian Apprenticeships Ambassador, Jessica has shared her career success story with many people who can encourage others to take on Australian School-based Apprentices, including career advisers at Hobson’s 2012 Australian Career Service Seminars and as a keynote speaker at the 2012 VET Network Conference. She has also starred in the Australian Government’s Real Stories Real Achievements video series.

“Working in the clinic has shown me that Veterinary Science is what I want to do and now I have been accepted into the course I want at university. I’m looking forward to what the future holds,” she said.

watch the real Stories real achievements video series at australiantrainingawards.gov.au.

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“Probably the best aspect of my apprenticeship has been the self-belief I built inside. Also the income. I can now support my family and go out and get nice things and live a lifestyle that I’ve always hoped for.”Joshua Toomey

Joshua’s Story

reAl StorIeS And reAl AchIevementS:

oUr AUStrAlIAn APPrentIceShIPS AmBASSAdorS

Joshua Toomey was the 2011 Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander Student of the Year.

In 2010, Joshua completed his four year apprenticeship

and was awarded a Certificate III in Electricity Supply Industry

- Distribution (Power Line). He is now enjoying a career as a fully

qualified Electrical Linesman for Ausgrid.

“Doing an apprenticeship brought a sense of direction with my income

and having that piece of paper that says I am qualified and assures me

that there is some sort of direction in my life,” Joshua said.

As an Australian Apprenticeships Ambassador, Joshua has presented his story to a range of audiences across

Australia to assist in raising the status of apprenticeships and traineeships.

Joshua has provided inspiration to job seekers at the Newcastle Jobs and Skills Expo, as well as starring in the Real Stories Real Achievements video series to promote Australian Apprenticeships for both individuals, and employers.

Joshua was also keynote speaker at the launch of 2012 National Skills Week in Sydney, and gave industry an ‘apprentice perspective’ at the 2012 EE-oz Industry Skills Council’s annual conference held in the Northern Territory.

Joshua has not only transformed his own life over the last five years but also the lives of many other young Indigenous Australians. As well as being an Australian Apprenticeships Ambassador, Joshua is strongly involved in Ausgrid’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pre-Apprenticeship Program, where he actively mentors and supports new apprentices.

“Probably the best aspect of my apprenticeship has been the self-belief I built inside. Also the income. I can now support my family and go out and get nice things and live a lifestyle that I’ve always hoped for,”he said.

on tuesday 6 december 2011, the australian apprenticeships ambassadors program was announced by the australian government. Since this time, over 50 ambassadors from all over australia, including australian training awards winners and finalists, have joined the program to share their inspirational career achievements.

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Clayton Harrington: 1999 Victorian Apprentice of the Year

When I won the Victorian Apprentice of the Year Award in 1999, I also received a scholarship consisting of a round-the-world plane ticket and a cash prize allowing me to travel to various countries and view various aspects of the building industry including construction methods and architecture.

It was an amazing award to win. It was a representation of all the hard work and commitment I put into my training.

The award has helped me so much in the growth of my businesses as I have been lucky enough to meet some

very inspirational people. After winning the award, I

set my goals on starting my own business.

I completed my Australian Apprenticeship through Westvic Group Training this

allowed me to work for a number of host employers. This method

of training enabled me to gain skills from various people in the

industry providing me with a broad range of construction methods from

all aspects of the commercial and domestic construction sectors.

I went on to complete a number of courses after my Australian

Apprenticeship, including Certificate IV in Building and Construction and various

qualifications in contract administration, computer aided drafting, occupational

health and safety and building and construction estimation.

In 2001 I started my own business, Harrington Design & Construction Pty Ltd.

I now employ in excess of 20 people full time and subcontractors. The company has built commercial, industrial and residential buildings including hotels, nightclubs, commercial shop fits, offices, cheese plants, milk plants, industrial sheds, multi-unit developments and architecturally designed housing.

My company has won many awards in the construction industry such as the Hotel Association’s Best Redeveloped Venue for a Gallery Nightclub.

I now own four companies including:

• My first business, Harrington Design & Construction Pty Ltd

• Clayill Developments Pty Ltd, where I specialise in Commercial Building Development, Commercial Building Leasing and Holiday Accommodation

• Princess Heights Developments Pty Ltd, which looks at land development and residential block sales (where I have developed and sold over 240 housing blocks), and

• C J Fitness Pty Ltd Fitness Centres (an area where I see future growth).

For me, an Australian Apprenticeship was a great stepping stone to a bright future. It put me in contact with a varying array of businesses early in my career pathway which proved to be a real advantage. It was a great honour this year to be contacted by the Australian Training Awards to write my story for this magazine and to join the Australian Apprenticeships Ambassadors Program.

where Are they now?

The effervescent Virginia Gay has been a fixture in Australian homes since her television debut as nurse Gabrielle on Channel Seven’s All Saints and in her current role as business woman, Frances, on Winners and Losers.

The accomplished actress and singer has been entertaining audiences on the stage and screen since she graduated from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) with an Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts in 2005.

Virginia was awarded the WA Vocational Student of the Year the same year.

“Looking back, it all happened really fast – a fantastic blur,” Virginia said.

“It felt like one minute I graduated, and then WAAPA awarded me the Sangora Award for vocational education and training, and then I got top honours from the government as the best vocational student in the state. It was a phenomenal time,” Virginia said.

Virginia was in the middle of auditions for All Saints when she was announced as the WA Vocational Student of the Year.

“Winning the state training award was a great experience,” she said.

“I felt on such a high. And the timing was perfect – it gave me a huge confidence boost just before my All Saints audition, which I then worked on for three years.”

Virginia recalls her experience at the WA and Australian Training Awards as a great experience, and credits much of it to her training provider, WAAPA.

“WAAPA was the perfect choice for me - I met so many fantastic people,” she said.

“The teachers inspired us. Theory was turned into practice on a daily basis – we were always on the stage, never in the books. I learned so much more than I ever thought I would.

“My wish is organisations like WAAPA continue to be funded, because they really do make people’s dreams a reality.”

Virginia Gay: 2005 Western Australian Vocational Student of the Year

“It felt like one minute I graduated, and then WAAPA awarded me the Sangora Award for vocational education and training, and then I got top honours from the government as the best vocational student in the state. It was a phenomenal time.” Virginia Gay

Get recognised for your efforts in vocational education and training by entering the 2013 training awards in your state or territory (in aligned categories) or by nominating directly to the Australian Training Awards.

Australian Training Award categories include:

Organisation categories• Small Employer of the Year Award

• Employer of the Year Award*

• Small Training Provider of the Year Award

• Large Training Provider of the Year Award

• International Training Provider of the Year Award*

• Industry Collaboration Award

Individual categories:• Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year Award

• Vocational Student of the Year Award

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year Award

• Australian Apprentice (Trainee) of the Year Award

• Australian Apprentice of the Year Award

• VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year Award

• Lifetime Achievement Award

National Focus categories:• Australian Apprenticeships - Employer Award*

• Excellence in Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) Practice Award*

• School Pathways to VET Award*

• Skills for Sustainability - Educational Institution Award*

• Leadership in VET Quality Award*

Information on each of the 18 award categories is available at australiantrainingawards.gov.au or phone 13 38 73 for more information.

* The International Training Provider of the Year Award category is direct entry for all states and territories except Western Australia.

* All entries for these categories are made direct to the Australian Training Awards.

Get recognised for your training success!

So go on!

Get some recognition for your training excellence and apply for the 2013 Australian Training Awards.

australiantrainingawards.gov.au 13 38 73

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At a 2012 Australian Training Awards Magazine

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