Ironwood Institute was proud to be represented at the 2026 South Australian Training Awards, presented by the South Australian Skills Commission.
The Awards are an important opportunity to celebrate the people and organisations contributing to the strength and future of South Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) sector. This year, Ironwood was honoured to be named a finalist in two categories, recognising both our organisation and one of our dedicated trainers.
Recognising excellence in vocational education
For the second consecutive year, Ironwood Institute was named a finalist for Small Training Provider of the Year.
Following our win in the category in 2025, being recognised again in 2026 was particularly meaningful for our team. The recognition reflects our continued commitment to delivering quality training for the greenlife industry and supporting students to develop the practical skills, knowledge and confidence needed for their future careers.
Our 2025 award was a significant milestone for Ironwood and reinforced the important role that horticultural education plays in developing South Australia’s future green industry workforce. To return as a finalist this year was a wonderful acknowledgement of the ongoing work of our staff, trainers and students.
Congratulations to ELC Training Australia, the 2026 Small Training Provider of the Year. We were pleased to share the category with another training organisation making an important contribution to vocational education in South Australia.
Celebrating our trainers
Ironwood was also incredibly proud to see Tony O’Rielly named as a finalist for VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year.
Tony’s recognition reflects his ongoing commitment to students, industry and the delivery of quality vocational education. His dedication to supporting students and connecting their learning with practical industry experience is a valued part of the Ironwood community.
While Tony didn’t take home the award this year, reaching the finalist stage among the many outstanding trainers across South Australia was an achievement in itself—and we are very proud of him.
The Awards also provided an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of vocational education to South Australia’s agribusiness sector. Congratulations to Maisa Lacasandil, Trainer and Assessor with SunPork Group, on being recognised as the category winner.
Celebrating South Australia’s VET sector
The South Australian Training Awards highlight the remarkable diversity, quality and innovation across the state’s VET and skills sector. From trainers and students to training providers and industry professionals, the Awards provide an opportunity to recognise the people helping build stronger industries and meaningful career pathways across South Australia.
Ironwood Institute congratulates all finalists, winners and nominees who were recognised throughout the evening.
We would also like to thank Cameron Baker and the South Australian Skills Commission for continuing to provide an important platform to celebrate the achievements and contribution of South Australia’s VET sector.
For the Ironwood team, it was a proud night—and a reminder of why we are so passionate about supporting students and the future of the greenlife industry through quality vocational education.
