Recognising Excellence
1 July 2008
The second annual awards gala event which celebrates excellence in the interpreting profession - will be held on July 4 in Melbourne.
Kangan Batman TAFE Auslan and Deaf Studies Centre co-ordinator Julian Hertan said the awards recognise excellence in the profession with categories covering a range of specialist areas including interpreters, advocates of Auslan and deafblind interpreters. With over 100 nominations, Sandra and Christopher are among a quality field of Auslan professionals vying for the individual awards.
"Currently, the ASLIA Victoria awards are the only formal activity recognising the contribution made by professional Auslan/English and Deafblind Relay interpreters and their agencies," Julian said.
"Although Auslan interpreting is a small, niche industry, our members are located throughout the country. Some even have posts overseas. Most are involved in ASLIA - the national organisation for interpreters - in various capacities, but all with the aim of improving their own skills and the industry as a whole.
"The nominations for Sandra and Christopher are a reflection of their long-term dedication to the Deaf community and their commitment to their respective fields of expertise. Staff members at Kangan Batman TAFE's Auslan and Deaf Studies Centre share in their commitment and passion for improving services offered to the Deaf community and we are extremely proud to have two of our own nominated in recognition of their achievements."
Sandra has been nominated for the Interpreter Advocate award, which recognises a significant contribution to the profession of interpreting through actively promoting and enhancing the work of interpreters.
Sandra has served on the Australian Sign Language Interpreters' Association committee for several years now, and is a keen supporter of advocacy services for interpreters.
"The awards only started last year, and were a great success, so it's wonderful to have received the nomination for this year's awards," Sandra said.
"It's a real thrill. The nomination for the Advocate Awards means quite a lot to me."
Christopher received a nomination for the Deafblind Interpreter of the Year an award which is dedicated to the interpreter who has made a significant contribution in the deafblind field.
Kangan Batman TAFE is recognised nationally and internationally as the leader of vocationally-focussed Auslan language acquisition training.
The ASLIA Victoria Awards will be announced on Saturday July 5, 2008, at a formal dinner event in Toorak.
