The awards will be presented at a reception for the ‘future stars’ of our industry before the main National Excellence Awards dinner at the Grand Hyatt in Melbourne.

Category 1

Innovation winner:  Stefan Sergio

Stefan has constructed a practical and time-saving solar-powered device to open farm gates automatically – so saving the time of opening and closing as farmers drive through their properties.

It’s called the Solar Powered Automated Cantilever Farm Gate.  The innovative idea uses metal detector loops buried underground. It has been programmed to open when a farm vehicle approaches and closes within a set time with the inclusion of motion sensor cameras.

In addition to this he has programmed/constructed the gates to be remote-controlled, solar powered and exert minimum stain on the rack, pinion
and the motor through the canti-lever system.

Innovation Runner-up:  Shenalka Rodrigo

Shenalka was inspired by fuel shortages and global warming to design and construct the Solar Powered Electric Car. This concept uses recyclable materials and second-hand parts and is intended short runs – to and from work or university. 

The battery charges when the vehicle is not in use through the use of renewable solar energy.  What’s more, the car produces no carbon pollution. Attached to his great car are LED headlights and strips, a dashboard with an ignition switch, speakers, horn and many more features.

Category 2

Commitment to Industry winner: Jarrod Simon Morton

Jarrod is passionate about electrical engineering and electronics. His enthusiasm, work ethic and positive attitude towards learning and developing
his electrical skills has been highly commended by his teachers and work experience managers.

He has participated in various projects through his school and pre-apprenticeship. Jarrod has taken part in a 12 day remote project working on
Telstra fibre optic repeater power systems in far west South Australia, completed control panels for fuel combustion control and process monitoring
systems and been thoroughly involved with his two school projects – the Continuity Tester and the Logic Puzzle.

His pre-apprenticeship manager commented that he has ‘a long and successful career in the Electrical industry ahead of him’ if he continues to work with
his current enthusiasm and motivation.

Commitment to Industry Runner-up:  Liam May

Liam has shown outstanding interest in learning the Electrical Trade. He has demonstrated outstanding achievements in both the academic and practising field of Electrotechnology and has received many awards for his achievements.

His great attitude towards learning, work and peers has been highly commended and has been recognised as a leader and great individual to be
around.

“We congratulate all of the winners, and runners-up, for their great achievements and wish them all the best in their future endeavours,” says NECA
CEO, Suresh Manickam.