2 August 2023
Three exceptional students from South Regional TAFE are making headlines as finalists in the prestigious Western Australian Training Awards.
Esther (Po Yan) Wong, Riely Stammers-Hozier, and Matthew Piercey have demonstrated outstanding talent and dedication in their respective fields, and showcased the excellence of vocational education and training in the region.
The lecturers who have supported and taught these students are also to be congratulated for their passion and dedication to training, along with the assistance provided by college support staff.
The Awards celebrate individuals who have used vocational education to pursue their passions and make a difference in their communities. They also promote the critical role that vocational education plays in developing skilled people and contributing to the success of local industries.
The ceremony on September 14 promises to be a night of celebration and recognition, where these young stars will shine brightly, representing the spirit of excellence, determination, and the power of vocational education.
We wish them all the best for their success.
WA International Student of the Year 2023 finalist
Esther (Po Yan) Wong – Margaret River
Esther pursued a Diploma of Hospitality Management (Cookery) at South Regional TAFE, after studying business in Hong Kong and working in the hospitality industry for many years.
Her studies allowed her to refine her skills in the industry after previously completing her Certificate III and IV in Commercial Cookery with SR TAFE.
Now calling Margaret River home, Esther's commitment and flair in the hospitality industry have been exemplary and she continues to succeed since winning the South Regional TAFE International Student of the Year in 2022.
WA Apprentice of the Year 2023 finalists
Riely Stammers-Hozier – Margaret River
Riely’s fascination with cars and machines ignited a passion for automotive electrical technology. Enrolling in the Certificate III program at South Regional TAFE, he set out on an apprenticeship journey after a two week period of work experience.
Riely's hands-on training and remarkable skill have enabled him to excel, allowing him to become an important team member at Margaret River Auto Electrics.
Riely is enthusiastic about sharing his experience as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community to increase inclusion in the profession. He also wants to increase awareness about mental health issues and the value of diversity, particularly in rural and remote areas.
No stranger to success Riely recently won two awards: the Trades, Paraprofessionals and Service Industries Student of the Year in 2022 and The John Coote Memorial Motor Trades Award as the top final year apprentice in 2023.
Matthew Piercey – Eaton
Matthew has discovered his calling in heavy machinery and mobile plant technology. As a mature-aged apprentice, Matthew is keen to promote an apprenticeship as a pathway that anyone can begin at any time in their life.
He pursued a Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology, and his hard work and dedication were recognised, as he was hired by BHP (formerly Bunbury Machinery), testimony to his competence and potential.
Matthew's selection as a finalist in the WA Training Awards honours his outstanding accomplishments and demonstrates the high quality of training delivered by South Regional TAFE.
His journey exemplifies the prospects provided by vocational education, opening the door for innovation in the field of mobile plant technology.