NATURE INSPIRES CORPORATE GIFT DESIGN AWARD WINNERS

Queensland’s unique natural beauty and diversity has inspired the winners of a statewide competition to design corporate gifts for visiting dignitaries.

Member for Aspley and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education, Training and the Arts, Bonny Barry, presented the 2007 Queensland Aspects awards in a ceremony at Parliament House today.

“The Queensland Aspects awards are a celebration of the creative talent of TAFE students and teaching staff across the state,” Ms Barry said.

“The entrants were required to create a corporate gift with broad client appeal reflecting a unique aspect of Queensland, suitable as a souvenir for visiting dignitaries, business leaders and international VIPs.

“Graphic design student David Kan, from the Bremer Institute of TAFE, won the student category for his design of a set of beverage coasters inspired by Queensland’s unique native bunya pine.

“Mr Kan, of Corinda, receives $2000 and a tailored business and training package for winning this category.

“Central Queensland Institute of TAFE graphic design teacher Julie Robertson, of Yeppoon, won the $2000 teaching staff prize for her perpetual calendar that celebrates the beauty and diversity of Queensland while considering environmental sustainability.”

Highly commended for their designs were Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE student Ellen Appleby, of Noosa Heads; Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE student Christina Carlowe, of Alexandra Hills; Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE student Shirley Dawes, of Warwick; and Southbank Institute of Technology student Anna Lang, of Carina.

Minister for Education, Training and the Arts Rod Welford said supporting training for the creative arts industries was a priority for the Queensland Government.

“As part of the $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan, we have established an Industry Skills Alliance to work with the creative industries,” Mr Welford said.

“The Creative Industries Skills Alliance is an autonomous industry body that will address skill shortages and assess future skills demand.

“The alliance will receive $770,000 over three years to identify skill shortages, plan for future needs, promote creative industries to schools and regional Queensland and improve overall workforce capability.”

The Queensland Aspects exhibition can be viewed from October 17 to 31 at Education House foyer, 30 Mary Street, Brisbane or online at www.tafe.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000