STUDENTS from TAFE Queensland’s Fraser Coast campuses were all smiles, as they donned caps and gowns in celebration of their graduation.
Over 60 students graduating with qualifications in study areas ranging from nursing and early childhood education and care to automotive and beauty, descended on the Beach House Hotel on Wednesday 6 December with their nearest and dearest to mark the culmination of all their hard work, and the beginning of their new careers.
TAFE Queensland General Manager for the East Coast region Mark Reilly said the ceremony was an opportunity for students who had completed their studies in 2023 to reflect on their accomplishments.
“Graduation is about celebrating not only everything our graduates have achieved throughout the duration of their studies, but all the doors that they have opened by investing in their future,” Mr Reilly said.
“We congratulate all our Fraser Coast graduates who have studied with us this year, and can’t wait to see where their journeys lead them.”
The ceremony was a particularly proud moment for 20-year-old Diploma of Nursing student Jacob Brassington, who was awarded the 2023 Fraser Coast Student of the Year for his dedication to his studies.
Mr Brassington said he was pleasantly surprised when his name was announced.
“It wasn’t until I was on the stage and looking at my family and teachers that I was able to feel just how much I’ve achieved and how far I’ve come,” Mr Brassington said.
“It was a pretty emotional moment – my nana, grandad and mum were all there and crying – but for me, I was just so happy to be able to share this with them because they’ve been so supportive throughout my studies.”
At just 18-years-old, he packed up his life in Canberra, leaving behind his family and friends, and moved in with his grandparents with the goal of kick-starting his own career caring for others and one day working in mental health nursing.
“I’ve always been a caring person, and I had great grandparents and teachers who recognised that and supported me in that direction,” Mr Brassington said.
“Starting out so young, I found it all a bit daunting at first, but I wanted to prove to myself I could do it, and during the course I got to really find myself and build my confidence and strength.
“I’d now like to work as an enrolled nurse for at least a year to gain more practical experience before doing a Bachelor part-time, and obtaining my Masters in mental health nursing.”
