A YOUNG man with dreams of joining the army and a landscaping apprentice have been named among Wodonga TAFE’s top students.
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Jahren Kennedy was awarded the Eddie Kneebone Scholarship at the institute’s annual Celebration of Achievement Awards last night.
That was for his efforts in his transport and logistics studies so far this year that he hopes will help him pursue a defence career.
Also acknowledged was Suzanne Grant, who was named the vocational student of the year for her efforts in cultural heritage tourism.
Ms Grant’s work this year has included helping Indigo Council develop plans for a new tourism venture at Chiltern.
These were just two of a host of achievements recognised last night.
Budding landscaper Joel Kellett was named the apprentice of the year and Jenny Stewart the teacher of the year for her work in vocational education and training.
Mr Kellett is a third-year apprentice who has also started a Certificate IV Landscape Design in his own time.
Graphic design and production officer Andrea Frost and teacher Anne-Marie Beer were named joint winners of the award for specialist staff member of the year.
More than 50 students were recognised at the awards, which were held at The Cube in Wodonga.
They were joined by family and friends, along with more than 60 representatives of industry and government.
Wodonga TAFE chief executive Michael O’Loughlin said the awards were about recognising student success through learning, as well as celebrating their achievements.
Mr O’Loughlin said all award winners had exceeded expectations and had acted as positive role models for their fellow students and colleagues.
“We acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our students and staff, but it is also a time to also thank local employers and industry,” he said.
“The strong links with them create successful opportunities for many of our students and help enable continued growth and success at Wodonga TAFE.”
Guest speaker at the awards was retired Major General Roger Powell, who had a 34-year career as a commissioned officer in the Australian Army.
His postings included East Timor, Bougainville, Germany and Britain.
But he also served as the army training commander and headed all of the army’s colleges, schools and training establishments, including in the Wodonga area.