Celebrating Our 2025 Wodonga TAFE Training Awards Finalists
Monday, 24 November 2025
Wodonga TAFE is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Wodonga TAFE Training Awards, a celebration of the remarkable students, teachers, trainers, Defence personnel, and staff who embody the very best of our learning community.
Every year, these awards shine a light on the people who bring passion, dedication, and purpose to their training. They remind us why education matters -because it transforms lives, strengthens industries, and creates opportunities that last well beyond the classroom.
With the awards ceremony taking place on Tuesday 25 November, excitement is already building across our campuses. This year’s finalists represent an inspiring cross-section of our learners and staff, each with a unique story of growth, resilience, and achievement. We look forward to coming together as a community to celebrate their success.
2025 Award Categories and Finalists
Corporate Employee of the Year
Recognising excellence, leadership, and outstanding contribution across Wodonga TAFE’s corporate and support areas.
Finalists:
- Brad Hogan
- Craig McFarlane
- Judy Fraser
Trainer of the Year
Celebrating trainers who lead with skill, professionalism, and a commitment to delivering high-quality, industry-relevant training.
Finalists:
- Richard Swindell
- Julie Handley
- Neville Brannan
Teacher of the Year
Honouring teachers who inspire through innovation, connection, mentorship, and deep commitment to student success.
Finalists:
- John Tugliach
- Bobby Read
- Susan Toohey
Young Achiever of the Year
Recognising young learners who demonstrate exceptional drive, growth, and potential in their chosen pathway.
Finalists:
- Sharn Smith
- Ayla McKenna
- Nash ‘Spike’ Holden
Trainee of the Year
Celebrating trainees who have embraced hands-on learning, strengthened their skills, and shown outstanding personal and professional growth.
Finalists:
- Pippa Galbraith
- Jye Austin
- Nicole Brereton
Defence Student of the Year
Acknowledging excellence within our Defence training programs, recognising the commitment, discipline, and leadership of Defence learners.
Finalists:
- Samuel Sutcliffe
- Dylan Formica
- Leaston Farrawell
First Nations Student of the Year
Honouring First Nations students who demonstrate cultural pride, resilience, leadership, and community contribution through their studies.
Finalists:
- Jessica Smart
- Kerry Tonu
- Kiram Austin
Vocational Student of the Year
Recognising students who have excelled in their vocational studies and contributed positively to their learning community.
Finalists:
- Nikita Picone
- Maverick Metcalf
- Summer Le-Lar
Apprentice of the Year
Celebrating apprentices who are building strong foundations for their future careers through skill, dedication, and passion for their trade.
Finalists:
- Logan Blachford
- Paul Higgins
- Maeve Boyle
Employer Recognition Award
- The Goods Shed
- Do My Hair
Industry Collaboration Award
- Westmont Aged Care Services
- Blacklocks Ford Wodonga
Looking Ahead to Awards Night
The Wodonga TAFE Training Awards are more than a ceremony, they reflect the heart of who we are as an organisation. A place where people discover their strengths, connect with opportunity, and gain the confidence to shape their future.
On Tuesday 25 November, we’ll gather to honour every nominee, every finalist, and the teachers, trainers, employers, and support teams who have walked alongside them.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you.
Congratulations to all our 2025 finalists!