Two from North Coast Institute honoured in 2004 TAFE NSW Aboriginal Awards

9 July 2004

Gail Mabo, a part-time student in the Diploma of Children’s Services, received an Achievement Award, and Kevin Naden, the Aboriginal Co-ordinator based at Coffs Harbour, received a Staff Award. The awards were presented by Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Training, Andrew Refshauge, who said that the awards celebrated and recognised the achievements of Aboriginal TAFE students and staff who have contributed much to their communities through education and training.

Gail Mabo was recognised for her impressive academic achievements, whilst juggling her own family commitments and caring for her own children. She is known for her warm and caring approach, and is seen as an inspiration and role model to students and staff alike.

Kevin Naden started as a TAFE teacher in Dubbo in 1981, and both his teaching skills and his knowledge and understanding of the vocational and educational needs of Aboriginal people have stood him in good stead in his later career as an Aboriginal Coordinator. This work, along with his pro-active approach to initiatives like the Aboriginals in TAFE Network and Cultural Awareness Workshops, was honoured in his Staff Award.

North Coast Institute Director, Neil Black said, “I am delighted to see that the work of both these valuable members of our community has been appropriately honoured. We are proud of our positive relationships with the Aboriginal community on the North Coast, and these awards are richly deserved.” In 2003, Aboriginal students made up 6.5% of the enrolments in North Coast Institute courses, which was the one of the highest participation rates in the state, and nearly double the percentage of Aboriginal people (3.5% in 2003) in the North Coast population.

Kevin Naden, received a Staff Award at the 2004 TAFE NSW Aboriginal Awards

Contact:
Neil Brown, Manager Media and Public Relations
North Coast Institute of TAFE NSW
6586 2224 0438 624 804