Over 650 people gathered to celebrate outstanding achievement at the North Coast TAFE, Ballina Casino Lismore and Wollongbar Campuses Awards of Excellence held on Saturday afternoon 21 May 2011 in Lismore.

The awards are for the 2010 academic year with 128 students nominated based on academic results, class or campus participation, whether they are a great team player or have great leadership skills.

It was no surprise that the major award of the night, the 2010 Student of the Year, was a tie which reflected the high standard of the nominees.

The winners of the 2010 Student of the Year were Gordon Cox, also the recipient of the Community Services & Health Student of the Year and Emma Tunbridge, the recipient of the General Education Student of the Year.

 “I couldn’t believe it when I won, my family, particularly my son, were so excited, it’s fantastic” said Gordon Cox. “I couldn’t have done it without the support and encouragement of the teachers, staff and fellow students at Ballina, it’s amazing.”

Elizabeth McGregor, Director of North Coast TAFE said what a magnificent event and that the Awards showcased a huge range of talented students.

“I’m extremely proud of the achievements of the students, congratulations to all the nominees and the winners.” said Ms McGregor.