Students, teachers and Learn Local providers will be recognised for their inspirational efforts in adult and community education in Victoria at this year’s Learn Local Awards. 

Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh today announced that an East Gippsland student has made the list of 30 finalists for the 18th Annual Learn Local Awards, to be held later this month. 

Orbost Education Centre student Hayley Ingram has been nominated as one of four finalists in the Ro Allen Award, for the Learn Local Pre-accredited Learner category, where she’ll go up against finalists from Morwell and Horsham. 

The awards recognise Victorians across eight categories, highlighting their achievements and illustrating the impact of adult and community education across the state. 

These awards celebrate how Learn Locals provide opportunities for people to engage in positive learning experiences, helping them to gain the confidence and skills they need in study, work and life. 

More than half of the finalists are from regional Victoria, showing the extensive reach of Learn Locals across the state. 

Learn Locals play a critical role in Victoria’s post-secondary system, offering a unique community-based learning option that focuses on learners’ core skills needs. More than 200 not-for-profit community organisations are registered as Learn Locals.
 
Winners will be announced at the 2024 Learn Local Awards gala ceremony to be held on Friday 25 October. See the finalists and find out more at: 2024 Victorian Learn Local Awards finalists. 

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh 

“I’m thrilled to see a local East Gippsland student make the 30 finalists ahead of the Learn Local Awards night later this month.” 

“Our government has continuously invested in further community and adult education like TAFEs and education centres right across Victoria and it’s wonderful to see local students like Hayley taking advantage of the courses available to them.” 

Quotes attributable to Orbost Education Centre Manager Merralyn Barnes 

“Our program assisted Hayley to better communicate, learn, and participate not only in the world of floristry and retail, but life.”  

“We are all very proud of what Hayley has achieved after her course and wish her well for the future.” 

Quote attributable to Orbost Education Centre student Hayley Ingram 

“I loved every moment of the Introduction to Floristry course provided by Learn Local via the Orbost Education Centre. I’m so thankful and excited to be a nominee for the Ro-Allen award.”