News Item

GIFT FROM A GENERATION OF STRONG WOMEN TO ANOTHER

November 29, 2011

An indigenous painting honouring maternal strength was a symbolic gift to farewell Chief Executive Officer of Community College Gippsland (CCG), Bernadette O’Connor.

CCG Business trainee and young indigenous artist, Jess Rose, presented a limited edition print of her first painting titled, Wild Child to Bernadette O’Connor at a dinner in Warragul for CCG Board members and management.

Jess and Merle Rose thanked Bernadette O’Connor for her support in establishing an indigenous education and training unit at the College which has opened up cultural, art and learning opportunities for Koorie adults and children.

Jess Rose described her painting as a gift from a generation of strong women to another strong woman.

During the presentation, Board Chair Cheryl Glowrey, reflected on the significant impact that Bernadette O’Connor has had in building adult education and training opportunities across Gippsland over the past 8 and half years.

“Under Bernadette’s leadership, the College has grown into one of the largest community colleges in regional Victoria with 9 campus locations and more than 2,300 students.

“Although only a small College six years ago, Bernadette had the courage and tenacity to convince the architects of education in Melbourne that the College was worthy enough to take on management of the McMillan campuses and Gippsland Harness Training Centre

“She won the support of many people who recognised the importance of keeping such significant facilities in the hands of a local community education provider.

“From then, it has been an amazing ride growing programs in horticulture, agriculture and equine, introducing hair and beauty training in west Gippsland for the first time and extending opportunities in adult education in Business, Management, Children’s Services, Aged Care, Disability, and more.

“The College also established the first independent VCAL College for young people who are unable to stay in a mainstream school setting.”

Cheryl Glowrey thanked Bernadette for the legacy she has left the Gippsland community.

“The College is well positioned to continue to take new opportunities and grow to meet the specific needs of businesses and individuals.

“We wish Bernadette O’Connor well in her new position as CEO of Central West Community College in New South Wales.”

The Board of Community College Gippsland is expected to announce a new Chief Executive Officer in the next few weeks. In the meantime, Jeff Tellefson is Acting Chief Executive Officer.

Front from left:  Jess Rose, Bernadette O’Connor, Merle Rose.
Back from left:  CCG Board Chair Cheryl Glowrey and CCG Indigenous programs Manager Maryanne Meyer

For further information contact:

Jeff Tellefson
Deputy CEO
Community College Gippsland
Ph: 5622 6000