Novocastrians Shine at 2024 Australian Training Awards
Novocastrians Lachlan Carey and Dascha Harrison shone at the Australian Training Awards held in Canberra on Friday night, taking out some of the top awards of 2024.
“Lachlan and Dascha’s stories are extremely inspiring. Their success shows real Novocastrian spirit and is a testament to their hard work and resilience," says Tim Crakanthorp MP, State Member for Newcastle.
The VET sector came together at a gala night at the National Convention Centre in the capital to recognise apprentices, trainees, VET students, teachers, practitioners, employers and training providers from around Australia. Hon Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Skills and Training says, “The Australian Training Awards are about recognising the dedication and achievements of people in the VET sector and how VET plays a future-shifting role for so many individuals and the communities they live and work in."
Following significant health setbacks, Lachlan Carey was recognised for his resilience and tenacity, taking home the prestigious 2024 Trainee of the Year. Lachlan has pursued his passion to help others by completing a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care with Atkinson Training and Development. Bringing his fun, nurturing and patient nature to every interaction during his traineeship at A Magical Time Children’s Centre, Lachlan was immediately adored by the children in his care.
Newcastle High School Year 12 student Dascha Harrison received runner-up for the Australian School-Based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year Award. Dascha is undertaking a school-based traineeship to help her prepare for her career in child and adolescent psychiatry. Completing a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance at TAFE NSW, Dascha is employed at Hunter New England Health. Dascha is not only shining in her traineeship, but is also excelling in the classroom, on the sports field and in her part-time job.
Excellence in vocational education and training (VET) was everywhere to be seen during the 30th year of the Australian Training Awards, with other NSW representatives taking home the Excellence in Language, Literacy and Numeracy Practice Award (Winner), Vocational Student of the Year Award (Runner-up), the Australian Apprenticeships Employer Award (Gold) and School Pathways to VET Award (Bronze).
