A communal seat with ribs to represent the growth rings of a tree and a state of the art lamp will soon be on display in government buildings, thanks to the hard work and creativity of Victorian TAFE students.
The Governor of Victoria, The Hon Linda Dessau AM, and Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert today presented the Minister’s Student Award for Excellence in Timber Design and Manufacture to two teams of students from Holmesglen Institute.
The award was created when a large Hoop Pine tree had to be cut down last year in the grounds of Government House.
Apprentices and Victorian students undertaking nationally recognised training were invited to submit design briefs for transforming the felled tree into a piece of furniture to be displayed in a Victorian government building.
The winning briefs came from two teams of students studying Certificate IV in Furniture Design and Technology at Holmesglen Institute.
Each team then manufactured their designs from the tree. Each winning student was today presented with a pen made from the same Hoop Pine.
The Andrews Labor Government is transforming Victoria into the Education State through a range of initiatives including the $320 million TAFE Rescue Fund and the $50 million TAFE Back to Work Fund.
Quotes attributable to Governor of Victoria The Hon Linda Dessau
“Given the history of this particular tree, as well as the significance of the Hoop Pines in Victoria, there was considerable thought as to what should happen to it when it was felled.”
“Providing the timber to students studying in Victoria and encouraging them to pursue excellence in design was a solution which aptly reflects the ethos of Government House.”
“I was particularly pleased to host the presentation of the Awards on the Fountain Court overlooking the site where the 140 year old Hoop Pine proudly stood only a few years ago.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert
“This award provides an opportunity to help develop the skills of students. I congratulate both teams of Holmesglen TAFE students who have produced innovative pieces of furniture for the future.”
“This magnificent furniture is a tribute to the skills and creativity of students in Victoria.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020