On Wednesday 2 March Bendigo TAFE celebrated another successful year of students completing their studies at its annual Graduation and Awards Ceremony.
Held at the Ulumbarra Theatre, the event honoured graduates and top achievers who have successfully completed nationally accredited courses ranging from certificate I through to advanced diploma. Over 300 students, guests and staff attended the event.
The highlight of the night was the presentation of the overall 2015 Student of the Year Award. The award went to Diploma of Nursing graduate Brendan Key, who enrolled at Bendigo TAFE as a mature age student after 10 years in the Australian Defence Force where he worked as both a chef and a medic on submarines.
Upon completing his studies, Brendan was awarded a highly sought after graduate position at the St John of God Hospital in Bendigo – an achievement he partially credits to the high level of training and preparation during his studies.
“(It was) a very rewarding course full of support from the teachers and the TAFE,” said Brendan of his time at Bendigo TAFE. “You are industry ready – by the time you finish your course you are ready to work.”
After completing his graduate year, Brendan wishes to continue his studies at university level and pursue his passion for mental health.
Other major awards and winners for the night include the following:
ADULT LEARNER OF THE YEAR AWARD – Somporn Towiang
This award is presented to the most outstanding student studying a language course.
JAN LORIMER MEMORIAL AWARD – Emma Flannery
This award is presented to student in their final year of studies in health.
TOM CONNOR MEMORIAL AWARD – Cameron Weir
This award is presented to a student in the final year of an apprenticeship in agriculture or engineering.
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD – Sean O’Connor and Madeleine Hatchard
Sponsored by MAS National, this award is presented to the most outstanding apprentice.
