Cowra has reason to celebrate after two of its own were named winners at the 2025 NSW Training Awards.

The annual event, now in its 70th year, recognises excellence across vocational education and training, and this year both Rebecca Hambrook and Darby Hubber claimed top honours in their categories.

Rebecca Hambrook was awarded Vocational Student of the Year for her work through the Weigelli Centre Aboriginal Corporation in Cowra, where she completed a Certificate IV in Community Services.

Meanwhile, Darby Hubber was named VET in Schools Student of the Year after completing a Certificate II in Agriculture through the Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst.

The awards, presented by Training Services NSW, celebrated achievements from across the state, with regional NSW standing out strongly in 2025.

Most of the honours went to individuals living and working outside metropolitan Sydney, showing the strength of vocational education in rural communities.

The winners will now represent NSW at the Australian Training Awards, to be held in Darwin on 5 December.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, praised the winners and finalists for their achievements and their contribution to the future of the state.

“I congratulate all the winners and finalists at the 2025 NSW Training Awards whose achievements are a powerful reminder of how vocational education and training uplifts futures and strengthens our communities, industries and economy,” he said.

Whan also highlighted the importance of role models like Rebecca and Darby in reshaping the perception of vocational careers.

“Our future prosperity is dependent on growing our skilled workforce, and role models like our Training Awards winners are essential in breaking down stereotypes about VET careers,” he said.

Looking ahead, Whan expressed confidence that NSW’s representatives will shine on the national stage.

“As our winners head to Darwin for the Australian Training Awards in December, I know they’ll fly the NSW flag with pride,” he said.

“They’re the best of the best, and I’m confident they’ll inspire the nation, just as they’ve inspired us here at home.”

With Rebecca and Darby set to represent NSW at the national awards, the town will be cheering them on as they take their success from a regional stage to a national spotlight.