2025 Australian Training Awards

Shirley, who earlier this year won the Koorie Student of the Year at the 2025 Victorian Training Awards as well as The Gordon’s Koorie Excellence Award, was honoured nationally for her leadership, advocacy and dedication to creating culturally safe and empowering training environments.

Shirley said the honour was deeply meaningful.

“Winning the 2025 Australian Training Award was unexpected and deeply humbling,” Shirley said.

“For me, it reflects the power of vocational education to create opportunity, restore confidence, and support Aboriginal learners through culturally safe, strengths-based pathways that shape real futures. I am so excited for my future and for the future of vocational education and training.”

The Gordon’s Chief Executive Officer, Joe Ormeno, said Shirley’s achievement on the national stage - alongside recognition for the GEESP program - shows what excellence looks like when it goes hand in hand with equity and community impact.

“This is a proud moment for Shirley, for everyone who supported her journey, and for our partners across the region,” Mr Ormeno said.

“It also shows what’s possible when Victoria’s TAFE network works alongside community, industry and government: culturally safe learning, accessible pathways into skills and jobs, and practical supports that help people participate and succeed.”

The GEESP program is a landmark collaboration between The Gordon, Development Victoria, the Give Where You Live Foundation’s GROW initiative, social enterprise gforce employment + recruitment, and national builder Built. The program provides accessible training pathways and employment opportunities linked to major infrastructure projects, particularly for people from underrepresented backgrounds.

Carley Brennan, The Gordon’s Director of Engagement and Partnerships, said the national recognition is testament to the power of collective effort.

We are immensely delighted to have both a dedicated student and a collaborative industry program representing The Gordon on the national stage,” Ms Brennan said. It’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when education, community and industry work hand in hand.

Carley Brennan, The Gordon’s Director of Engagement and Partnerships

As a graduate of the First Nations pilot of the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, Shirley’s journey reflects resilience, leadership and a commitment to uplifting community through culturally grounded education.

The Gordon congratulates Shirley, the GEESP program partners, and all Victorian finalists for their outstanding achievements. Their dedication continues to inspire and strengthen vocational education across Victoria and Australia.