Tracey receives recognition for study achievements

An Awareness Rehabilitation Management Case Worker who supports individuals on their path to rehabilitation at the Maryborough Correctional Centre has been recognised for her outstanding dedication to her studies and her industry, after taking out the title of Vocational Student of the Year in the Queensland Training Awards North Coast regional final on Friday 25 July.

TAFE Queensland graduate Tracey MacDonald was among 11 individuals and organisations to receive an accolade at the awards, and will now progress to the state Queensland Training Awards final on Saturday 13 September, where she will face off against the winners from other regions across the state.

Tracey said she was honoured to have receive the award, and credited her family, friends and teachers for their support throughout her studies.

“To my family and friends, thank you for your support, encouragement, and sometimes a literal pat on the back. It all made a remarkable difference on this journey,” Tracey said.

“And to my incredible TAFE teachers, thank you. Your belief in me, your patience, and your encouragement changed everything. You recognised my strengths before I did,” she said.

A former diesel fitter of 15 years, Tracey decided she wanted to help others overcome the challenges in their lives after sustaining a career-ending injury.

“After my injury, I was left wondering, ‘what now?’,” Tracey said.

“From my late teens and throughout adulthood, I’d struggled with substance use myself, and I wanted to understand why—to step into a space where I could make a difference for people dealing with the same challenges.

“So, this award isn’t just for me. It’s for anyone who feels broken, lost, unworthy, or stuck. It’s for those who think their past defines them – it doesn’t.”

The 47-year-old initially completed a Certificate IV in Youth Work (CHC40421) at TAFE Queensland, followed by a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122), working with youth who struggle with mainstream schooling at Carinity Education before joining DrugARM (Awareness Rehabilitation Management) in her current role.

Driven by a desire to build on her experiences and provide the most meaningful support to the individuals she works with, it was at this point that Tracey chose to enrol in a dual Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs/ DIploma of Mental Health (CHC53215 / CHC53315) through TAFE Queensland’s online program.

“Doing this course has felt like Pandora’s box opening up – it’s removed the stigma for me. I’m not ashamed of my journey anymore, because it’s led me to where I am now,” Tracey said.

“I want to be able to encourage and hold hope for others—helping them find the courage and tools they need to make lasting change.”

TAFE Queensland’s General Manager (East Coast) Mark Reilly said the organisation was proud of Tracey’s achievement, praising her commitment to her studies.

“As the state’s largest and most trusted training provider, TAFE Queensland changes live every day, supporting Queenslanders like Tracey to achieve their goals and contribute to their communities,” Mr Reilly said.

“We take great pride in our students’ accomplishments, and congratulate Tracey for what is an outstanding achievement. Her passion, drive and determination to succeed has been nothing short of awe-inspiring, and we wish her the very best of luck at the state finals.”

With Jobs Queensland projecting an increase in employment opportunities for social workers of up to 12.5 per cent across the Wide Bay region over the next five years, skilled, compassionate workers are in demand. And with determined and empathetic determined individuals like Tracey stepping up to the challenge, the future of the community is in safe hands.