Top Honour for Tyrell Raymonde-Salmon
Tyrell Raymonde-Salmon has been named the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year for the Central and Northern Region at the 2025 NSW Training Awards.
In recognition of his outstanding dedication and achievements during his horticulture traineeship with IndigiGrow and Waverley Council, while completing a Certificate II in Horticulture.
A proud Aboriginal man, Tyrell has demonstrated excellence in both practical and academic areas of his training, combining deep cultural knowledge with a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental restoration.
Tyrell Raymonde-Salmon"I was surprised and excited to win. It's given me confidence and shown me that my disability won’t hold me back. I want other young Indigenous people to know they can follow their dreams, no matter the obstacles they might have to overcome."
During his traineeship, Tyrell contributed to native plant regeneration, bush food projects, and sustainable gardening practices, helping to protect endangered species through his work with IndigiGrow. At Waverley Council he brought reliability, initiative and cultural pride to every task.
The award recognises not only Tyrell’s hard work and leadership, but also the success of inclusive training partnerships that create real opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.
Brittney Simpson – NMM Program Mentor“We’re incredibly proud of Tyrell and all he’s achieved. He’s stayed true to himself—a proud Aboriginal young man driven to make a difference. His journey reflects the power of culture, community, and hard work. This recognition is well deserved and just the beginning.”
In addition, a huge congratulations goes to Lillie Loveridge, who was named a finalist in the same category, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year, for her own inspiring efforts and achievements in vocational education.
Congratulations also goes to Aliyah Gordon, who was recognised as a finalist in the NSW Trainee of the Year category, a remarkable achievement that reflects her dedication, professionalism, and drive for excellence.
Tyrell will now go on to represent the Central and Northern Region at the NSW State Training Awards, where winners from across the state will be announced later this year.
Souths Cares wishes Tyrell the best of luck at the State Training Awards Night.
