Trade Teacher Award Winner 2009

Congratulations to:

Murray Dryburgh, Teacher of Electrotechnology
TAFE NSW, Riverina Institute, Leeton Campus

About Murray's win

NECA announced the Electrical Trade Teacher of the Year Award for 2009 at the national industry awards held in Melbourne on 26 November.

Murray Dryburgh, an electrotechnology teacher at the TAFE NSW Riverina Institute, Leeton campus, took out this year’s award as the best trade teacher in the country. His award includes professional development and a cash prize totalling $5,000.

NECA’s Trade Teacher Award recognises the outstanding contribution made by trade teachers in continuously raising the standard of education and training in the electrotechnology industry. Applicants are assessed on their excellence in teaching, innovative practice and client satisfaction.

Murray has been an electrical trade teacher in southern New South Wales for more than 18 years. He is highly regarded by his peers and former students as an inspirational teacher who goes out of his way to ensure his students exceed their own expectations and succeed in their studies and careers. Many of his students have won electrical trade awards and a number have established their own successful businesses in the industry. Murray has remained mentor and friend throughout their lives and many have sent their own apprentices to him as they know he provides the best training that is available. Students travel far and wide to participate in his courses and he has an enviable retention and completion record.

Murray is determined to provide ‘industry current’ programs and constantly seeks new equipment from both TAFE and industry to expose his students to the latest and emerging technologies and industry practices. He regularly liaises with industry representatives and clients to build his programs to directly meet their needs. To keep his own skills and knowledge up to date, he has spent much of his holiday time on professional development courses or with his sleeves rolled up, back working in the industry.

Murray intends to use his prize to develop photovoltaic training as part of the course he offers.

Wes McKnight, NECA Victoria president and convener of the judging panel said, “Murray is clearly passionate about his students and his work. He has developed flexible training delivery systems that reach across a wide geographical area and have proven to be highly successful. The dedication he shows his students and the involvement he has in their training and careers is remarkable. He is a truly exceptional teacher and well deserving of this award.”