Federation TAFE celebrates excellence at 2026 TAFE Awards
The outstanding achievements of staff and students have been recognised at Federation TAFE’s 2026 Awards, celebrating excellence in teaching, training and vocational pathways.
This year’s recipients reflect the impact of vocational education – from innovative and inclusive teaching to apprentices and trainees excelling in their chosen industries.
Student Vanessa May Munro was awarded the EJT Tippett Trainee of the Year Award, recognising her achievements as a Certificate III in Horticulture student at Federation TAFE.
Shifting from hospitality to horticulture, Vanessa returned to study with a strong desire to give back to her community. She is now applying her skills through Landcare volunteering, environmental regeneration projects and school-based initiatives.
Federation TAFE educator Sharon Bartholomew was named VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year Award, highlighting her exceptional commitment to inclusive vocational education.
A teacher in the Certificate III in Individual Support, Sharon has played a pivotal role in supporting learners from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, particularly members of the Karen refugee community in Horsham and Nhill.
The Federation TAFE Apprentice of the Year Award, sponsored by The Rotary Club of Ballarat South, went to Maylee Howard for her outstanding achievements as a pastry apprentice completing a Certificate III in Baking.
The Federation TAFE Awards for Excellence incorporated the Craftsperson Awards where 285 students who successfully completed their apprenticeship training in 2025 were welcomed with the honorary title of “Craftsperson of the City of Ballarat” by Federation University, the City of Ballarat and the Rotary Club of Ballarat.
Dating back to 1956, the Craftsperson Awards also acknowledge the region’s businesses who participate in the apprenticeship scheme.
Quotes attributable to Federation University Pro Vice-Chancellor VET & Pathways and Chief Executive TAFE, Mr Darren Gray
“Federation TAFE is changing lives through practical, hands-on education that leads to real jobs and real opportunities. These award winners represent the very best of vocational learning.”
“The award winners have shown dedication and determination in pursuit of their studies and chosen careers and we look forward to seeing what they achieve next.”
Quotes attributable to City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves
“For 70 years the Craftsperson Awards have recognised both individual achievement and the enduring value of apprenticeships in our region.”
“These awards highlight the vital role vocational education plays in building a skilled local workforce and a strong local economy.”
Quotes attributable to Chair of Vocational Service at Rotary Club of Ballarat South, Kerry Wilson
“The Rotary Club of Ballarat South is proud to support these awards and recognise the dedication and achievements of apprentices and trainees.”
“We congratulate all award recipients and acknowledge the employers and mentors who support them along the way.”
Quote attributable to EJT Tippett Outstanding Achievement Award recipient, Vanessa May Munro
“Moving from hospitality into horticulture has been incredibly rewarding – through my time at Federation TAFE I’ve gained practical skills and found new ways to contribute to my community.”
Quote attributable to VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year Award recipient, Sharon Bartholomew
“What makes adult and vocational education so powerful is who we teach. As educators, we help people rediscover their capability, their dignity and their place in the workforce and community.”