Queensland Student of the Year Award 2026

Valter Colledan    Queensland Student of the Year Award 2026

This prestigious award, organised by the Australian Anaesthesia Allied Health Practitioners Organisation and sponsored by Fisher & Paykel, is presented to the top student in Queensland each year.

Lynnix’s achievement highlights her dedication and excellence throughout her studies, cementing her place as a standout graduate in her field. After completing the Diploma of Anaesthetic Technology and Practice (HLT57921), Lynnix has transitioned from student to industry professional, now working in a fast-paced theatre environment where she supports anaesthetists and clinical teams in delivering safe, high-quality patient care. Lynnix recently returned to champion her TAFE Queensland experience, sharing her journey with industry partners at a panel event and highlighting how the course equipped her with the practical skills and confidence to step straight into the role. “Overall, TAFE gave me a really solid foundation, so when I started working, I wasn’t panicking,” Lynnix said. One of the most valuable aspects of the course, Lynnix said, was the extensive hands-on training with specialist equipment used daily in theatre. “One of the biggest things for me was learning how to check the anaesthetic machine. We spent a lot of time going through how they work and how to do safety checks. That’s something literally used every single day in theatre,” she said. That real-world training using TAFE Queensland’s industry-standard facilities and equipment gave Lynnix confidence from day one in her new role. “When I started working, I didn’t feel completely lost around the equipment, which was a huge relief,” she said. Delivered in a dedicated learning space featuring state-of-the-art anaesthetic machines, vital signs monitors, difficult intubation equipment and simulator mannequins, the diploma is designed to prepare students for real-world clinical settings under the guidance of experienced health professionals. Students develop the advanced skills required to work as anaesthetic technicians, including assisting with client preparation, checking and maintaining anaesthetic machines, preparing medications, monitoring clinical measurements, supporting airway management and responding to emergencies. Lynnix said the strong foundation she built at TAFE Queensland made the transition into the workforce significantly smoother. “We also covered the basics of the anaesthetic process, like what equipment to prepare, what drugs are commonly used, and what potential issues to watch out for,” she said. “Having that foundation made a big difference, especially during induction when everything moves quickly.”  Now thriving in the industry, Lynnix said the experience has only reinforced the value of her training. “Theatre can be busy and unpredictable, but by observing senior techs, asking questions and being open to feedback, I gradually built my confidence,” she said. For those considering a future in healthcare, Lynnix said TAFE Queensland is the ideal place to begin. “For anyone thinking about becoming an anaesthetic technician, this is a great starting point,” she concluded.

Allison Holloway Award Winner 2025

Jessica Burke the 2025 Drugwaste International, Alison Holloway award winner receiving her Award, at the 2025 Conference at the Esplanade Hotel, Fremantle , Western Australia

Jessica Burke Submission – Alison Holloway Award

EXTERNAL MEMBER AWARDS

EXTERNAL MEMBER AWARDS

Don Steward Award | North Metropolitan TAFE, WA

Tamara Irvine-Don steward award, TAFE WA