Dairy Australia Education Excellence Award - Manufacturing

In keeping with the ongoing drive for developing the industry's capability, Dairy Australia, in partnership with the National Centre for Dairy Education Australia (NCDEA) award the Dairy Australia Education Excellence prize each year.

This award is presented to the outstanding final year student in the Diploma of Dairy Manufacturing.  The winner will receive a cheque for $1,000.

2010 Winner

Steve McKinnon

Steve is a great example of how hard work, drive and energy can open doors in a dairy career. Starting as a trainee in the powder packing area with Bega Cheese in 1998 Steve quickly progressed to training and mentoring roles for new staff in the whey plant. Later he was pronumber of important projects at the site. His learning in the Diploma course will provide him with a sound foundation to embark on future project responsibilities.

Previous Winners:

2009 - Malcolm Toohey, Darnum Victoria

Malcolm started his career in the dairy industry at Fonterra, Darnum in December 1997 as a Process Controller where he spent time working with cream separators and milk evaporators. He commenced his studies with the NCDEA in 2007 and has quietly achieved results well above expectations.

Malcolm’s current role as Production Technologist at Fonterra focuses strongly on troubleshooting and systems improvements. In his diploma studies, Malcolm has excelled in developing his understanding of various aspects of dairy processing and how these fit together.

His learning in the Diploma course will provide him with a sound foundation to embark on his upcoming technical role in the key and expanding area of Nutritionals Technology.

2008 - Daniel Bruce Neale

Daniel is currently a Production Technologist at Fonterra Darnum, where he started 11 years ago and has progressed to being responsible for computer programming of processes, trouble shooting and special projects.

Daniel has successfully completed Certificate 11 and 111 studies in Food Processing. Throughout the two years of his Diploma, he has averaged marks of over 90%, which is quite an achievement, and is being groomed for a future management career.