2025 National Awards in Darwin

“Having two Victorian Training Awards winners progress to the national stage is a proud moment for our students, our partners and our whole region,” Chief Executive Officer Joe Ormeno said. “It says a lot about the strength and quality of training at The Gordon and the partnerships that sit behind it.”

“These achievements show what’s possible when people, community and industry work together – opening doors to opportunity and inclusion and delivering real benefits for our region,” he said.

Carley Brennan, The Gordon’s Director - Engagement and Partnerships, who will attend the awards night in Darwin, said: “We are immensely delighted to have both a dedicated student and a collaborative industry program representing The Gordon on the national stage. It’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when education, community and industry work hand in hand.”

Shirley Darcy’s journey is more than academic success. It represents a commitment to strengthen cultural awareness and safety in vocational education, and to ensure Aboriginal knowledge, ways of learning and community are respected and uplifted. 

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

The Gordon congratulates Shirley, the GEESP team, and all finalists from Victoria. We wish them the very best of luck at the national awards. We hope their hard work and achievements continue to inspire and shine on the national stage.