Sixteen of the nation’s best individuals, apprentices, students, training providers, teachers and businesses have been recognised for their hard work and dedication at the 2021 Australian Training Awards.
The Australian Training Awards are the largest national awards recognising our nation’s vibrant Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector. The annual event, held in a virtual ceremony on November 18, provided an opportunity to highlight the outstanding individuals, businesses and registered training organisations who demonstrate best practice and innovation within the sector.
David Collins PSM from the NSW Department of Education has been recognised for his contribution and leadership to the sector for more than 15 years, awarded with the new Outstanding Achievement in VET and Skills Sector award.
David is respected and recognised as a leader by industry, stakeholders and interest groups for the breadth of his skills knowledge and his experience in leading vocational training in NSW.
Other standout recipients include Kasey Hardy of Queensland who was named winner of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year award and Savanne Canobie of the Northern Territory who has been named 2021 Apprentice of the Year.
More information about the winners can be found below.
To see a full list of 2021 Australian Training Award winners, visit the Australian Training Awards website.
2021 Australian Training Award recipient highlights
Outstanding Achievement in the VET and Skills Sector Award
David Collins PSM (NSW)
David Collins PSM is a visionary and strategic leader, with the impact of his significant leadership being realised at the policy and practical level. He has crafted a vision for VET and skills which is future-looking and has influenced policy and practice nationally. Since 2005, David has held many roles with the NSW Department of Education, and is respected and recognised as a leader by industry, stakeholders and interest groups for the breadth of his skills knowledge and his experience in leading vocational training in NSW.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year Award
Kasey Hardy (QLD)
Certificate III in Work Health and Safety
RTO: Harness Energy Services
Employer: Harness Energy Services
Host Employer: Shell QGC
A traineeship offered Kasey the perfect opportunity to get a taste in the industry. Kasey chose the resources sector to learn more about natural gas extraction, particularly about its impact on the environment and, through another traineeship, is now continuing her Workplace Health and Safety studies.
Apprentice of the Year Award
Savanne Canobie (NT)
Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electricia
RTO: Charles Darwin University
Employer: Rio Tinto
Savanne has completed her Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician qualification at Rio Tinto Gove Operations in North East Arnhem Land. Raised and educated in the town of Nhulunbuy, she is an active member of the community through sports and community events. As a female apprentice in what is traditionally a male dominated industry, Savanne has consistently demonstrated an eagerness to refine her skills and seek out opportunities to lead. She is a mentor to new apprentices and has career aspirations to become qualified in a dual trade in Electrotechnology and Instrumentation and Control. Savanne is a role model for other females considering an Electrical career in the mining industry and actively promotes female apprentices joining Rio Tinto Gove Operations.