Mary Faraone
Recipient, 2022 Lynne Kosky Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement
Mary Faraone is a respected leader in the vocational education and training (VET) sector, both nationally and internationally. In a career spanning more than 40 years, Ms Farone has been recognised for her outstanding leadership and lasting contribution to VET practice and skills development in Australia. As an administrator, policy shaper and a passionate advocate for learners of all abilities and backgrounds, Mary is committed to ensuring Australians have access to high quality public education.
Mary is committed to the role tertiary education plays in supporting social inclusion and social cohesion in the community, and its underlying values of equity and access. She is a public advocate of VET and its role within the national economy but also the profound impact it has for individuals.
Thomas Patterson
Winner, 2023 Teacher or Trainer of the Year Award
After 15 years of working in the construction industry as a carpenter and licenced builder, Thomas leapt into VET teaching to share his knowledge and skills. Teaching at Outer Northern Trade Training Centre, he delivers the Certificate II Building and Construction Pre-apprenticeship (Carpentry) and the Certificate I Construction Pathways.
To prepare students more thoroughly for the workforce, Thomas implemented real-world tasks. Small-scale models were replaced with house-sized wall frames, roof structures and sub-floors, which rapidly escalated their skills. Thomas collaborated with plumbing and electrical trade colleagues to apply the same approach into their trades, resulting in a rapid improvement in student output.
Beaufort & Skipton Health Service
Winner, 2023 Small Employer of the Year Award
Beaufort & Skipton Heath Service (BSHS) is a small rural health service (hospital) that has acute care, aged care facilities and community services. It caters to a population of 6,000 people across 2 campuses and includes a medical practice and allied health services.
Being a small organisation, each employee is treated as an individual, with individual aspirations. BSHS provides learning opportunities for nursing, cleaning, catering, maintenance, community and administration staff who are empowered to explore new study and career pathways. This includes qualifications in everything from cookery to health services administration and nursing. Investing in professional development ensures a well-rounded program with happy staff.
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