Regional winners in NSW Training Awards

FIVE local community members have been recognised for excellence in vocational education and training at last week’s 2025 North and Mid North Coast Regional Training Awards.

The awards, now in their 70th year, celebrate local VET learners and teachers who have made outstanding contributions to their workplaces and industries.

Apprentice of the Year, Geneva-based mature-age student Jake Barlow, said his apprenticeship as a powerline worker had provided the hands-on experience he craved.

“It has shaped me both personally and professionally, equipping me with valuable skills and a sense of purpose,” Barlow said.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my apprenticeship has been working in disaster-affected areas to restore power to communities. It was a challenging experience, involving hazardous electrical scenarios and difficult hygiene conditions, but it was incredibly fulfilling to help the community in such a meaningful way.”

Kingscliff resident Nicole Shedden won Trainee of the Year and said working in disability care was incredibly rewarding.

“VET was the right training pathway for me because it offers practical, hands-on learning that directly aligns with the type of work I want to do,” she said.

“This course has had a significant impact on both my professional and personal growth. It has provided me with a deeper understanding of occupational therapy principles, allowing me to deliver more effective support to clients.”

Numoil Smith of Goonellabah won Vocational Student of the Year, Murwillumbah music teacher Neil O’Donnell won VET Trainer-Teacher of the Year, and Tweed Heads High School student Bodhi Perandis was awarded VET in Schools Student of the Year.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said the finalists and winners represented premier VET talent in the region.

“Having a thriving and robust VET sector generates ripples in the local community with investment into spaces like healthcare, infrastructure, education and the economy,” he said.

Winners will represent the North and Mid North Coast communities in the 2025 NSW Training Awards in September.

For more information, visit education.nsw.gov.au/skills-nsw/nsw-training-awards