13 September 2019

Epping local Troy Ward was announced as the winner of the Phil Darby Memorial Award, Encouragement Award for an Apprentice or Trainee at the NSW Training Awards last night.

The TAFE NSW student, who is employed by Infinity Lifts, is one of three TAFE NSW winners that took home awards from the event.

NSW Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the strong showing by TAFE NSW students, including Mr Ward from Epping, was testament to their commitment to excellence in their chosen field.

“This is a wonderful result for Troy and for TAFE NSW and I have no doubt that Troy will go on to be a great ambassador for the region, and the Electrotechnology industry,” Mr Lee said.

“While we rightly celebrate achievements on the sporting field, it’s just as important to celebrate achievements in the classroom and the workplace.”

Mr Ward said “I am incredibly proud to have won this award.

“My hope is that it shows others out there that they can have a trade-based specialised skillset while having a physical disability such as my hearing impairment.

“I want to thank my employers for giving me a career and my parents for their unconditional love and support.”

Regional General Manager, Vicky Mazzeo said she was delighted so many of the award winners were from TAFE NSW and that the strong results at this year’s awards were a clear demonstration of the high-quality education and training provided by Australia’s largest training provider.

“TAFE NSW is the leading skills provider in the state, delivering relevant, high-quality, practical and creative training to grow the NSW economy and skill the workforce of the future,” Ms Mazzeo said.

“Troy is testament to the depth of talent and exciting career opportunities on offer through vocational education and training pathways.”

The NSW Training Awards celebrate the excellence of apprentices, trainees and students undertaking vocational education and training.

All NSW Training Award winners will proceed to the coveted Australian Training Awards which will be held in Brisbane this November.

Media contact: Alice Dalley, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, mobile: 0402 528 210