2/09/05
By becoming computer literate at the age of 59, Pamela Neesham is living proof that learning is a lifelong experience.
Ms Neesham was last night named this year's Outstanding Learner at the 10th annual Adult Learners' Week Awards.
Education and Training Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich, who announced this year's winners, said Adult Learners' Week Awards acknowledged and applauded people and organisations which had made an outstanding contribution to lifelong learning.
"These awards recognise learners, programs, providers, tutors, groups of learners and partnerships which have achieved outstanding results in adult learning," Ms Ravlich said.
Ms Neesham said she started a computer course to improve her communication skills and fulfil a lifelong ambition.
"Learning computer skills was one of the best things I ever did - now I can easily stay in touch with friends and family who are interstate or overseas," Ms Neesham said.
"After retiring, I really wanted to start my own business as well as write a children's book - but this was difficult without knowing the basics of computers.
"I even surpassed my own expectations and have just started tutoring computer courses to other adults like myself."
Ms Ravlich said it was never too late to learn a new skill and Adult Learners' Week encouraged continued education and training regardless of age.
"I would like to congratulate all the winners on their outstanding contributions," she said
"The Gallop Government is committed to improving the skills of all Western Australians."
Adult Learners' Week individual award winners:
Iris Harrison, of Mandurah, Outstanding Tutor (Volunteer). Iris is a dedicated volunteer who assists hundreds of seniors to learn computer and Internet skills. Her oldest student is 93 years old. Iris had never used a computer until she was 66 years old.
A posthumous award was made to Bev Corless, whose achievements were an inspiration to others. She received the Service Contribution Award (Individual). Bev was committed to adult community education and was instrumental in developing the partnership between EASY Learning Centre and Seashells Montessori Children's House.
Adult Learners' Week community organisation winners:
Milligan House Tuesday Writers (Bunbury) won first prize for the Outstanding Intergenerational Program. Tuesday Writers members range from 17 to 80 years of age and the group is an excellent example of sharing knowledge between generations.
Swan Explorers - Read Write Now! (Midland) was awarded Outstanding Provider (Community Organisation) for providing an informal, community-learning environment offering courses such as aromatherapy, self-esteem, budgeting, knitting and English classes.
Council on the Ageing WA Inc won Outstanding Provider (Public or Private Organisation). Based in Perth, the council provides seniors with the opportunity to learn in a safe and welcoming environment. The oldest graduate was 95 years of age. A current project - 'Digital Grandparents' - aims to bridge the technological divide between seniors and children.
The Acting and Scriptwriting Group - as part of the Hills Community Support Group in Mundaring - won Outstanding Group of Learners. The group, made up of people with disabilities, successfully completed a 10-week acting and 10-week scriptwriting course.
The City of Rockingham's Safe Seniors Program won Outstanding Program Award for its unique contribution to adult education. The program offers workshops for seniors' safety in the community and at home.
Challenger TAFE's Centre for Adult Education and Disability Services Commission's Bristol Centre (based in Applecross) jointly won the Outstanding Partnership Award for giving people with special needs the chance to participate in learning opportunities.
Minister's Office - 9213 6800
