The regional awards are organised by the Greater Northern Skills Development Group to honour and reward the achievements of students, trainers-teachers, training organisations, large and medium employers.

Regional winners go on to the state level to compete and then, if successful, go to the national awards.

As a premier event, the awards recognise the effort individuals, employer and training organisations put into VET.

For organisations, the awards are the perfect platform to showcase their commitment to VET, raise their profile and create an awareness of the industry to the workforce.

For individuals, the awards are an opportunity to celebrate the achievement with the employer and training provider. Being a finalist opens many doors for both the student and employer, as well as the training provider.

This year is the 13th year the Greater Northern Skills Development Group celebrates the New England Regional Training Awards.

This event is the "jewel in the crown", that recognises the extensive local talent in VET in the region.

Since 2007 Brian Jones, Karly Brogan and Bronnie Cocking have organised the regional awards, and this year Tania Walsh has paved the way for an online event via Facebook.

Members of the development group promote the awards and receive large numbers of nominations each year.

The New England Regional Awards are judged by representatives from the group, consisting of staff from a variety of stakeholders in the VET system such as apprenticeship network providers, training providers, employers, training services, Department of Education, careers advisers, careers network, local government and VET professionals.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Member for Tamworth, Kevin Anderson, are our local parliamentary representatives. They continue to support the training awards.

Sponsors receive great exposure throughout the New England region.

For more information, phone Bede Maher on 0428 469761 or email bede.maher@det.nsw.edu.au.