Two Gunnedah women were recognised for their skills and hard work at the 2017 NSW Training New England Awards on Friday.
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Braie Devine was named Trainee of the Year runner-up and Courtney Broekman received two accolades, Apprentice of the Year runner-up and Special Award for a Woman in a Non-traditional Trade or Vocation.
Ms Devine is a childcare educator at Gunnedah Preschool and Ms Broekman is an automotive mechanic at Taylor Automotive.
Ms Devine said there was an “incredible” atmosphere at the awards event, which saw more than 400 people gather at the West Tamworth League Club.
She said the award gave her more confidence to strive to be the best childcare educator she could be.
“I was speechless. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face. It was an absolute honour and such a surprise to receive runner-up out of 19 people.
“After I was called up onto the stage, I had two other nominees beside me both congratulate me and wish me good luck. It was the best experience of my life.”
Ms Devine said she was thankful to her family, her close friends, the staff and board members at Gunnedah Preschool, and her TAFE teacher Jenny Hawkins for their continued support.
“ I would not be here if it was not for them,” she said.
The former St Mary’s student recently accepted a full-time job offer at Gunnedah Preschool after becoming qualified in six months.
“I am over the moon to be spending my future as a childcare educator,” she said.
“No words could describe the feeling I get when I see those bright, smiling, beautiful faces every morning.
“I absolutely love teaching children and spending my days with them. There is nowhere else I would rather be.”
Fellow local Courtney Broekman has been praised by her parents, Michael and Nicole, for her two awards.
“Both Nicole and I are very proud of Courtney and her achievements,” Mr Broekman said.
“Being in a non-traditional trade [for a female] has got its challenges but Courtney’s always showed strong initiative, spirit and willingness to achieve, which makes us very proud of this accolade, which she received on Friday night.”
Ms Broekman did work experience at Taylor Automotive in Year 10 and took on a school-based apprentice with the business in Year 11 and 12. She recently completed an Automotive Mechanical Light Vehicle Certificate III through Tamworth TAFE.
“We are proud of Courtney’s continuous achievements,” dealer principal Ryan Taylor said.
“Courtney is a valued part of the growing Taylor Automotive Family.”