The accomplishments of students from across the region have again been recognised at the Murray Mallee LLEN’s Student Excellence Awards.

Held on Tuesday, November 22 at the Swan Hill Town Hall and attended by more than 200 guests, the event was the 13th Student Excellence Awards.

The evening also saw the presentation of the Steve Foley Memorial Award for the 2016 Student of the Year and the inaugural presentation of the Murray Mallee LLEN Achievement Award.

Steven Barr from Swan Hill College was announced as the winner of the Student of the Year award, while Keeley Nicholson, also from Swan Hill College, won the Achievement Award.

Sixty-two finalists from secondary schools throughout the Murray Mallee region were nominated in the various award categories for VETiS, SBATs and VCAL.  

The finalists were chosen by teachers and trainers as some of the most skilled, committed and hardworking students. Finalists were then interviewed by a judging panel from each industry sector, made up of local business and industry identities.

Each finalist received a certificate of recognition presented by Murray Mallee LLEN Chairperson Ron Stanton. Sponsors also presented category award winners with additional certificates and cash awards.

A highlight of the event included an address from 2013 past award winner and local racing identity Harry Coffey, who despite many obstacles, has worked to become one of Victoria’s leading jockeys. VETiS Music students also provided entertainment throughout the evening.

Also presented on the night was the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria (YacVIC) VCAL Partner Achievement Award. The award recognises partner organisations that have been outstanding in their support of a VCAL project or program in collaboration with a school. This year’s award was presented to Swan Hill FLO and the Swan Hill Specialist School for their collaboration on the Swan Hill Specialist School Music Wall.