Media releases

The hard work and dedication of Federation TAFE students over the past year will be celebrated this evening with the presentation of the 2021 TAFE Division Awards for Excellence. 

Forty-five awards will be presented to recipients nominated by Fed TAFE for excellence in their studies. 

The awards, sponsored by local industry and community groups, include the City of Ballarat Trainee of the Year Award and the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Apprentice of the Year Award. 

Trainee of the Year award recipient and Diploma of Nursing student Samantha Brown decided to make a career change to Nursing and saw the traineeship as a perfect way to transition from full-time employment in the hospitality industry to study with on-the-job nursing training for two days a week. 

“It was really great to learn the theory in the classroom and be able to put it into practice that same week within the industry; it helped reiterate what I’d learned,” Ms Brown said. 

Ms Brown said completing the traineeship led to a permanent part-time role with Ballarat Health Services. 

“You get to know everyone; they know what you’re capable of and you already know the procedures and guidelines – that’s invaluable.” 

Apprentice of the Year will be awarded to Jack Gallagher who has completed a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician. 

High school work experience sparked Mr Gallagher’s interest in the trade and he said his apprenticeship reaffirmed it was the right career path for him.  

“I found a place with nice morale and it really cemented what I wanted to do,” Mr Gallagher said. 

Mr Gallagher strived to get top marks throughout his apprenticeship studies, wanting to gain an in-depth understanding of his chosen field. 

He was faced with a tragic loss in 2020, following a death in his family and he said he was supported by his employer through this difficult time. 

“Mum passed away in March last year and that was a challenge in itself. My employer was really good about helping me get back on my feet.” 

Mr Gallagher has embraced his chosen career, obtaining a contractor’s licence as well as working with a fellow contractor. 

The 2021 Craftsperson Awards will also be presented at the ceremony and are a joint initiative of Federation University, the City of Ballarat and the Rotary Club of Ballarat. 

The awards ceremony will be held at 6.30pm in the Founders Theatre at Federation University’s Mt Helen Campus.  

Quotes attributable to Pro Vice-Chancellor Vocational Education and Training at Federation University and Chief Executive Federation TAFE, Liam Sloan 

“Throughout their studies and particularly in the past year students have demonstrated incredible dedication to reach their career goals and we congratulate the award recipients for their hard work.” 

“We also thank our industry partners and sponsors in helping us celebrate the wonderful achievements of students through the Federation TAFE Awards of Excellence.”