Celebrating our students at annual Gordon Awards for Excellence

The Gordon Awards for Excellence recognise students who have achieved top standards and demonstrated exceptional dedication to training, community engagement, and leadership.

The best of The Gordon’s students were on display on Wednesday 28 March at GMHBA Stadium for the annual Gordon Awards for Excellence where close to 200 attended. There were 20 different categories, including two major awards, Apprentice of the Year, Student of the Year, and a rare CEO Award category, offering up to $2,000 each in prize money and showcasing the exceptional skills and dedication shown by Gordon students.

The winner of this year’s Apprentice of the Year is Kyanne Dunlop, who is studying a Certificate III in Painting and Decorating. Kyanne came to The Gordon after spending many years as a chef. She decided to trade her knives in for a paintbrush and test herself in a new industry. This award is the culmination of her hard work and dedication to her craft.

“The thing I love most about my trade is the perfection to detail I’ve been able to master and seeing the finished result. Part of my 5 year plan is to eventually start my own business where I can onboard and mentor other apprentices.”

The Student of the Year went to Charlotte Brunt who is studying a Certificate III in School Based Education Support. Charlotte’s story is one of overcoming adversity to prove that you can achieve whatever you want if you put your mind to it.

"I was told at primary school that I’d never be at the same level as my peers. Inspired by the wonderful teacher aides who helped me throughout my schooling, I wanted to pay it forward and chose to study at The Gordon where I’ve gained invaluable insights and found my true passion. Eventually I’d love to teach the course and also study primary teaching.”

The awards night was attended by The Gordon’s CEO Joe Ormeno.

"Tonight's Excellence Awards were a vibrant showcase of the extraordinary talents that thrive within The Gordon. Each finalist has demonstrated not just academic excellence, but a deep-seated drive to pursue their dreams, overcome challenges, and contribute meaningfully to our community. With over 11,500 individuals choosing to study with us in 2023, the competition was fierce, but our finalists and winners tonight have shown that they are truly exceptional”.

Trey McAuley, a Certificate III Carpentry student, received a rare and distinctive CEO Award for his outstanding leadership, dedication and vision. His exceptional skills recently earned him a spot on the Skillaroos training squad and a selection to represent Australia at the International WorldSkills championship in Lyon, France.

“WorldSkills is a big opportunity for me. Going to represent Australia is not something you get to do every day. I’m embracing this once in a lifetime opportunity with my best effort and can’t thank my teachers, mentors and employer enough for supporting me.”

Discover more about our Gordon Awards for Excellence winners and sponsors and view our photo gallery from the event.