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    Media Release

    TAFE NSW Ultimo | 5 June 2026

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    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander excellence at 2026 Gili Awards

    ‘I hope my journey shows that barriers can be overcome and that success can look different for everyone. If my story encourages even one person to pursue their goals despite challenges, then that would be something I am very proud of.’

    Sharlene Payn, 2026 TAFE NSW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year

    Fourteen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff, and programs were recognised at the 36th annual TAFE NSW Gili Awards for their excellence, resilience, and leadership.

    The awards are the centrepiece of TAFE NSW’s National Reconciliation Week program, demonstrating its commitment to creating meaningful opportunities through education and skills training.

    TAFE NSW Albury graduate Sharlene Payn was named 2026 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year. Profoundly deaf, Ms Payn’s strength and determination saw her overcome significant personal challenges to complete a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment so she can design and deliver Auslan classes to other students and organisations.

    A large group of people, appearing to be recipients of the 2026 TAFE NSW Gili Awards, are posing for a photograph on a stage in front of a dark red curtain. Many are holding framed certificates, and some are holding glass trophies. The lighting is warm, and a floral arrangement is visible in the foreground.

    Ms Payn said, “It’s an incredible honour to win this award along with Digital, Business and Finance Services Student of the Year.”

    “As an Aboriginal woman, it means a great deal to have my educational journey and achievements recognised alongside so many inspiring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.”

    “I hope my journey shows that barriers can be overcome and that success can look different for everyone. If my story encourages even one person to pursue their goals despite challenges, then that would be something I am very proud of.” Ms Payn said.

    Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan praised all the high-achieving recipients.

    “The Gili Awards winners embody the very best of TAFE: skilled, passionate, and helping shape stronger communities and industries across our state. We’re incredibly proud to celebrate their success and the inspiration they bring to students everywhere,” Minister Whan said.

    TAFE NSW Managing Director Chloe Read said TAFE NSW is committed to ensuring every student feels supported to succeed.

    “Celebrating these achievements during Reconciliation Week highlights the powerful role education and training play in strengthening communities and driving meaningful change,” Ms Read said.

    TAFE NSW 2026 Gili Award recipients and their campuses:

    Student Awards:

    • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year – Sharlene Payn, TAFE NSW Albury

    • Young Achiever of the Year – Karliah Green, TAFE NSW Eora

    • Higher Education Student of the Year – Christopher Morgan, TAFE NSW Design Centre Enmore

    • Trainee or Apprentice of the Year – Olivia Clark, TAFE NSW Granville

    Vocational Students of the Year:

    • Digital, Business and Finance Services – Sharlene Payn, TAFE NSW Albury

    • Equity, Foundation Skills, Aboriginal Culture & Languages – Karliah Green, TAFE NSW Eora

    • Agriculture, Transport and Manufacturing – Billy York, TAFE NSW Coffs Harbour

    • Construction and Energy – Christopher Frail, TAFE NSW Tamworth

    • Health, Children’s Education and Community Services – Martin Morris, TAFE NSW Ourimbah

    • Creative, Cultural and Experience Services – Sonia Lawson, TAFE NSW Glen Innes

    Employee Awards:

    • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employee/Team of the Year – Daphne Parsons

    • Non-Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Employee/Team of the Year – Jason Coram

    • Bruce Kendall Award for Recognition of Service to TAFE NSW – Ngulla Murrandah (Gundungurra)

    • Reconciliation Award – Supporting First Nations Apprentices Microskill – Project Team

    Partnership Awards:

    • Industry Partnership Award – Indigenous Fire and Rescue (IFARES)

    • Community Partnership Award – Developing Literacy and Digital Literacy with the local Aboriginal community

    Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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