High Commendation
PHOTO: Alex Tubb’s son Owen (left), presents Graeme Finlayson with his High Commendation Award. Manager of Oak Tasmania’s Technology Learning Centre, Mr Graeme Finlayso, has been highly commended for his work as part of the inaugural Alex Tubb Young Worker Award – a joint project by National Disability Services (NDS) Tasmania and the Australasian Society for the Study of Intellectual Disability (ASSID) recognising outstanding leadership by workers in the Tasmanian Disability sector. Mr Finlayson was presented with his certificate in recognition of his work in the area of computer support and training for people who are disadvantaged, and was one of five disability sector workers who were commended for their work. The winner of the Alex Tubb Young Worker Award was Kellie Silver, with Alison Chilcott, Nicola Wyatt and Tracey Percival also commended for their work. Oak Tasmania CEO, Mr John Paton, applauded the efforts of Mr Finlayson saying his easy going personality, patience and perseverance, endears him to clients, their parents and carers.
“Graeme shows flexibility in meeting clients needs by altering programs, teaching technique and pace to meet the ability of the client. He is attuned to the needs of his staff and his example results in others following his lead.” Oak Tasmania’s Technology Learning Centre was originally intended for those with intellectual and / or physical disability, however under Mr Finlayson’s Management, participant numbers have doubled in the past 12 months and there is now a greater diversity of participants. “The centre caters for the needs of late primary and secondary school students, and older persons coming to terms with computers for the first time; those who are employed but need to enhance their computer literacy to keep pace with the changing demands of the workplace; and those with psychiatric illness. Our Technology Learning Centre is an example of social inclusion policies working at its’ very best,” said Mr Paton. Mr Finlayson said he viewed his Award as a ‘significant achievement’ because of the approach, beliefs and values of the man whose name adorns the Award. “Several people have informed me that Alex Tubb would have been interested and impressed with the work we are doing in the area of training opportunities for people who are disadvantaged, and he would have approved of me receiving the Award. “I would like to thank the participants who attend the Technology Learning Centre as they help create the culture at the centre, which is inspiring and delightful. Without them, the centre wouldn’t be what it is today!” |
