Snowy Cruizers Club President Jim Swaisland, TAFE NSW student Riley Dowell and TAFE NSW teacher Trevor Mills. Photo: Supplied.
TAFE NSW Tumut automotive student Riley Dowell has been named the first recipient of the Snowy Cruizers Club Automotive Award, which recognises his outstanding achievement in Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation.
“I’m really proud to be recognised with this award,” said Riley, who is from Adelong.
“It motivates me even more to keep learning. The money is very welcome and will come in handy too; I can always use more tools.”
The award, established this year by the Snowy Cruizers Club, aims to give back to the Tumut community by supporting local automotive training.
Club president Jim Swaisland said the initiative was born from the club members’ desire to make a meaningful contribution.
“We wanted to give something back to the Tumut community, and as an automotive organisation, it made sense to support up-and-coming mechanics,” Mr Swaisland said.
“One of our female members suggested the idea of an award for an apprentice and the committee agreed it was a great way to recognise excellence and encourage future tradespeople,” he said.
The award includes a $300 voucher for tools, redeemable at three local businesses, and a trophy for the student to keep. The club hopes to make this an annual tradition with a perpetual trophy featuring each year’s winner displayed at the TAFE NSW Tumut campus.
TAFE NSW automotive teacher Trevor Mills praised Riley for his commitment to his training throughout the course.
“Riley has shown dedication and a real passion for the automotive trade as he’s learned various skills he will continue to build on throughout his career,” Mr Mills said.
“He consistently goes above and beyond and is on his way to becoming a highly skilled, qualified technician.
“This award is a well-deserved recognition of his hard work.”
