June
Peta WoodBerry (Lead Ranger – ESi), Donald Kennedy (Ranger – ESi) & Michael Keenan (Deputy Chair – Sunraysia Regional Consulting)
Education Services International Supply Group (ESi) – celebrates Donald Kennedy as IEP Employee of the Month for June 2026.
Sunraysia Regional Consulting is proud to announce Donald Kennedy as the recipient of the Indigenous Employee of the Month Award for June, recognising his outstanding dedication, perseverance, and commitment to his role as a Ranger with Education Services International Supply Group Pty Ltd (ESi).
Donald’s journey into the Ranger Program is a powerful example of determination and resilience. At the time he applied for a Dareton Ranger position, interviews had already been conducted. Undeterred, Donald remained committed to securing an opportunity that aligned with his aspirations. Living in Wentworth at the time, Donald made the remarkable effort to attend an interview in Balranald; a considerable distance by car. Demonstrating exceptional determination, he hitchhiked and walked to reach the interview location. Thoughtfully requesting the latest available interview time of 3:00 pm to maximise his chances of arrival, Donald still managed to reach the venue an hour early, despite being visibly exhausted from the journey.
His dedication, presentation, and genuine passion for becoming a Ranger left a lasting impression, leading to his successful appointment to the Dareton Ranger team.
Since commencing in the role, Donald has continued to exemplify the qualities that earned him the position. He is regarded as a reliable, respectful, and hardworking team member who actively participates in training and daily operations. His commitment to learning and continuous improvement reflects a strong work ethic and pride in his role.
Donald is known among his colleagues as a quiet yet dependable individual who leads by example. While naturally reserved, he demonstrates the confidence to speak up when needed and contributes positively to team discussions and outcomes. His ability to build strong working relationships with both fellow Rangers and team leaders highlights his collaborative approach and professionalism.
Team leaders have consistently recognised Donald’s participation, positive attitude, and dedication. His reliability, resilience, and initiative are evident in his everyday work, and his journey to secure employment speaks volumes about his character and determination.
Donald’s story is not only one of professional achievement but also of personal perseverance. His willingness to overcome significant barriers simply to attend an interview underscores an extraordinary level of commitment and drive. Since joining the Ranger Program, he has continued to demonstrate that same level of dedication through his attendance, engagement, and performance on the job.
“Donald is an exceptional example of what determination and commitment can achieve,” Mr Glenn Thompson, Executive Officer of Sunraysia Regional Consulting, said. “He has proven himself to be a valued member of the Dareton Ranger team and an all-round terrific Ranger. His efforts inspire those around him and reflect the core values we seek to recognise through this award.”
Sunraysia Regional Consulting congratulates Donald Kennedy on this well-deserved recognition and acknowledges his contributions to both his team and the broader community.
Mr Michael Keenan, Deputy Chair of Sunraysia Regional Consulting, commended Donald on his outstanding achievements and dedication and presented him with a certificate and monetary award in recognition of his efforts.
May
Ronan Ban (Retail Area Manager – TASCO Petroleum), Maritta Watson (Branch Manager – The Cliffs – TASCO Petroleum), Casey Clark – Console Operator (TASCO Petroleum – The Cliffs), Nick Cavallo (Board Chair – Sunraysia Regional Consulting)
TASCO Petroleum – The Cliffs celebrates Casey Clark as IEP Employee of the Month for May 2026.
TASCO Petroleum – The Cliffs Roadhouse is proud to announce that Casey Clark has been recognised as the Sunraysia Regional Consulting Indigenous Employment Program (IEP) Employee of the Month for May 2026.
Casey joined the TASCO Petroleum – The Cliffs team as a Console Operator in November 2025 and quickly established herself as a dedicated and reliable team member. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and a genuine commitment to professional growth, Casey has actively pursued further training, including completing a barista course, Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certification, and food handling qualifications.
Known for her excellent communication skills, Casey consistently goes above and beyond to provide outstanding customer service. Her attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness have made a significant contribution to daily operations.
“Casey’s enthusiasm to learn and her steady development in the role have made her a valued member of our team,” said Ronan Ban – Regional Area Manager, TASCO Petroleum. “We are incredibly proud to see her recognised with this award.”
Casey’s dedication and ongoing progress embody the values of the Indigenous Employment Program, making her a highly deserving recipient of this month’s award.
April
Jazmin Hyland – Apprentice Hairdresser and Rachel Evans – Owner (Vibe Tribe Hairdressing)
Vibe Tribe Hairdressing is proud to announce that Jazmin Hyland has been named Sunraysia Regional Consulting’s Indigenous Employment Program Employee of the Month for April 2026.
Jazmin joined Vibe Tribe Hairdressing in Swan Hill as an Apprentice Hairdresser in April 2025 and is currently undertaking Certificate III in Hairdressing.
Jazmin has shown a great leap in confidence with her consultations. She always shows up and is happy to jump in to help whenever asked.
Other achievements, include moving into her own home with her boyfriend and has become independent and content in her own special place.
March
Jackson Bowden – Apprentice Carpenter (Ram Construction Group), Nick Cavallo (Board Chair Sunraysia Regional Consulting)
Ram Construction Group PTY Ltd is proud to announce that Jackson Bowden has been named Sunraysia Regional Consulting’s Indigenous Employment Program Employee of the Month for March 2026.
Jackson joined Ram Construction Group as an Apprentice Carpenter in October 2025 and demonstrated very quickly a strong work ethic and a genuine commitment to learning. Currently undertaking his Certificate III in Carpentry at SuniTAFE, he approaches every task with quiet determination and focus.
While naturally reserved, he is very much a quiet achiever, consistently ploughing through his work with care, reliability, and attention to detail. He takes instruction on board, applies feedback effectively, and is always looking for opportunities to improve his skills and knowledge on the job.
His positive attitude, willingness to learn, and steady progress make him a valued member of the team and a deserving recipient of IEP Employee of the Month recognition.
Jackson is firmly focused on his long-term goal of becoming a carpenter, a career path he pursues with passion and determination.
February
Gina Portelli (Manager Learning and Development), Karen Doyle (Learning & Development Officer), Kirby Taliloa (Customer Service Officer) & Nick Cavallo (Board Chair Sunraysia Regional Consulting)
Mallee District Aboriginal Services (MDAS) is proud to announce that team member Kirby Taliloa has been named Sunraysia Regional Consulting’s Indigenous Employment Program Employee of the Month for February 2026.
Kirby joined MDAS as a Customer Service Officer, quickly establishing herself as a valued member of the organisation. Her warm, patient and empathetic approach has strengthened client engagement across the Mildura region, contributing to a more supportive and culturally informed experience for community members.
Since commencing her role, Kirby has actively built her professional qualifications, completing the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and a Certificate III in Business through SuniTAFE. She has also earned certifications in First Aid and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health First Aid, enhancing her capacity to assist clients with care and confidence.
Beyond her current responsibilities, Kirby is firmly focused on her long-term goal of becoming a Speech Pathologist specialising in disability, a career path she pursues with passion and determination.
Kirby’s commitment to community extends beyond her workplace. She regularly volunteers as a respite carer for children with disability and remains actively involved in local initiatives and events.
January
Nick Cavallo (Board Chair Sunraysia Regional Consulting), Annalise Kelly (Employment Mentor – Are able) and Chloe Baron (Area Manager – Are able)
Are able’s employee Annalise Kelly is the Sunraysia Regional Consulting Indigenous Employment Program Employee of the month for January 2026.
Annalise commenced her role with Are able as an Employment Mentor, and since joining the organisation she has made a significant and measurable contribution to strengthening community engagement across the Mildura region. Her efforts have supported Are able in building stronger relationships with local families and services, resulting in more than 140 parents and carers successfully joining the Parent Pathways Program to commence pre‑employment activities.
Managing a caseload of 50 parents and carers, Annalise has demonstrated exceptional communication skills, rapport‑building, and client advocacy. She consistently supports participants to connect with local services when additional assistance is required, ensuring each individual has access to the right resources for their employment journey.
Alongside her professional achievements, Annalise is committed to her own career development. She is nearing completion of her Certificate IV in Community Services and has commenced the Diploma of Community Services, with a clear career goal of progressing to a Senior Mentor role within Are able.
Annalise also plays an active role in community events and initiatives. She has contributed to several major local expos and community activities, including the Mildura Rural City Council First Steps to Learning event, the Indigenous Business Expo, and IDAHOBIT Day. She also serves on the NAIDOC Week Committee and is a valued member of Are able’s Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group. In addition, Annalise has strengthened partnerships by engaging regularly with MDAS playgroups to further support local parents.
