From Adversity to Achievement: Newcastle Duo Triumph at NSW Training Awards

Two Newcastle locals have triumphed at the 2024 NSW Training Awards, with early childhood educator Lachlan Carey named Trainee of the Year and Dascha Harrison securing the School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year title at a ceremony in Sydney last night.

Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp, congratulated the duo on their outstanding achievements. “Lachlan and Dascha’s stories are extremely inspiring. Their success shows real Novocastrian spirit and is a testament to their hard work and resilience,” he said. “It’s great to have a platform to recognise these talents. Both achievements are a fantastic example of how skills-based training can provide multiple opportunities for young people.”

Organised by Training Services NSW within the NSW Department of Education, the NSW Training Awards annually recognise excellence in the vocational education and training sector. The awards highlight the importance of providing real skills for real careers and demonstrate the NSW Government’s commitment to building a resilient and highly skilled workforce.

Mr Carey overcame significant personal challenges to achieve his award. After suffering two strokes in Year 10, which required multiple surgeries and a lengthy recovery, he was forced to give up playing rugby league and was unable to complete his HSC. This health setback, however, led him to pursue a rewarding career in early childhood education.

Dascha, a Newcastle High School Year 12 student, was inspired by her own hospital experience to make a difference in other children’s lives. She is undertaking her Certificate III in Health Services Assistance at John Hunter Hospital. Recognised for her strong work ethic, Dascha balances the demands of being a full-time student, working part-time, and playing hockey. She aspires to specialise in child and adolescent psychiatry, focusing on treating and researching eating disorders.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, praised the winners: “Winning a prestigious NSW Training Award is a great achievement that will set up Dascha and Lachlan for more success as they pursue fulfilling careers in the skills industry. I also congratulate them both for choosing vocational education and training. It’s vital our students, parents, and teachers understand that VET is a credible alternative pathway to university for quality jobs and a first choice for many who want satisfying working lives.

“We know that many jobs created in the next decade will require vocational qualifications. These awards celebrate the young workers, trainers, and businesses working to ensure we meet this challenge.”

Both Lachlan and Dascha will now go on to represent NSW at the 2024 National Training Awards to be held in Canberra on Friday, 6 December.