Friday night the 19th of March Durack Institute of Technology celebrated the achievements of students and staff at the 2010 Durack Institute of Technology Graduation and Awards evening, for the graduating class of 2009, held at Batavia Hall.
The evening was a buzz with activity, with Batavia Hall near to capacity with 300 guests enjoying delicious appetizers and refreshments, provided by the DIT Hospitality and Commercial Cookery students under the supervision of the Hospitality Lecturers.
Minister for Energy, Training & Workforce Development, Hon. Peter Collier attended the event and presented a keynote address which highlighted the value of Training Institutes to their regions and vocational qualifications to students. “The Mid-West and Gascoyne regions are moving into exciting new territory, with major projects being developed in the mining, resources and science sectors, and training will play a vital role as these projects progress,” he said.
One of the evening’s highlights was the passionate address by special guest Professor Lyn Beazley, WA Chief Scientist, which tied in nicely with the theme for the night - ‘Reach for the Stars’.
Mr. Bert Beevers, Managing Director of Durack Institute of Technology said “Durack Institute of Technology has been a significant player in developing a strong skills and knowledge base in the region which now forms the backbone of businesses and community development that will enable all of us to benefit from current and future economic activity.”
In 2009 our student satisfaction rating was above 90% and more than 80% of our graduating students gained employment and or enrolled in further studies.
Mr. Beevers also noted the role and support of the College Governing Council and the College Industry Advisory Committees and businesses, and thanked them for their commitment and the strength of their advice. It is demonstrated in the outcomes achieved by the Institute, through the continued shaping of our delivery to meet the changing needs of the region and its industries.
The presentation of diplomas and outstanding achievement awards to the 2009 graduates were made, along with the announcement of the 2010 scholarships. The culmination of the evening was the announcement of the four Major Award winners:
- 2009 Trainee of the Year, Robert Gillen sponsored by Market Creations. Robert studied Certificate II in Information Technology and his host employer is Toovey Networx.
- 2009 Aboriginal Student of the Year, Joanne Franklin, sponsored by Wila Gutharra. Joanne studied Certificate IV in Visual Art & Contemporary Craft.
- 2009 Apprentice of the Year, Ben Micke sponsored by the Geraldton Rotary Club. Ben is an Apprentice in the field of Carpentry & Joinery and has studied at Durack Institute of Technology throughout his apprenticeship. His host employer is Dave McCarthur.
- 2009 Vocational Student of the Year, Kong (Joseph) Zee Chuin sponsored by the Mid West Chamber of Commerce. Joseph studied Certificate IV in Hospitality.
All major award winners will be encouraged to participate in the WA Training Awards, which are currently accepting applications.
Durack Institute of Technology staff were recognised for their outstanding commitment to the Institute and students with the announcement of the staff quality awards.
- Amanda Silvester, Lecturer in General Education, was presented with the Lecturing Excellence Award. This award recognizes the quality teaching practices of lecturers and their ongoing commitment to developing principles of quality training delivery and assessment practices over a period of time.
- Thomas Buhlmann, Lecturer in Automotive, was announced as the Rising Star Lecturer, which recognizes lecturers who are relatively new to the profession and who have shown a commitment to developing their skills as a lecturer, leading to the development of quality training and assessment practices.
- Bruce Cairn, Maintenance Officer, was presented with the Client Service Award. The client service award recognises exceptional client service provided by an individual or a team evidenced by prompt courteous and high quality service.
- Michelle Gard, Finance Manager, was presented with the Leadership award which recognises staff whose leadership has contributed to the development of the College and its ability to be a leading provider of education and training.
- The Construction & Rural Industries team was announced as the High Performing Team which recognizes teams who have made an exceptional contribution to help the Institute achieve its aim of delivering high quality education and training.
At the conclusion of the Awards Event Mr Beevers stated “The attendance and the support of these nights are a credit to the students, families, friends and staff. This evening would have not have been as successful without the ongoing support and sponsorship of local businesses.”