Community Education Australia

Moments like these are what make conferences truly special.

Connection. Collaboration. Conversation.

Looking back at the moments that defined the 2025 CEA Annual Conference — and continue to inspire the work we do today.

A huge thank you to our incredible 2025 MCs, Chemene Sinson and Casey Fox 👏

From guiding thoughtful discussions to keeping the energy flowing across the program, your professionalism, warmth and presence helped shape the tone of the 2025 CEA Annual Conference.

We extend our sincere thanks to our keynote speakers and panelists who shared their expertise, insights and lived experience at the 2025 CEA Annual Conference.

Your voices sparked meaningful conversations and challenged us to think differently about the future of skills, learning and leadership.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Muggera Cultural Enterprise for the powerful and moving cultural performance that opened Day 1 of the 2025 CEA Annual Conference.

Your performance set a meaningful tone for the conference — grounding us in respect, connection and reflection, and reminding us of the importance of learning, listening and walking together.

We are grateful for the generosity, knowledge and culture shared with our delegates to begin the conference in such a significant way.

We’re still incredibly grateful to the sponsors; Coverforce, Audit Express and Octossure, who helped make the 2025 CEA Annual Conference possible.

Your support played a vital role in bringing together educators, leaders and changemakers from across the country.
Thank you for investing in the future of community education.

From thought-provoking panels to hands-on workshops, the 2025 CEA Annual Conference was packed with energy, insight, and impact! 🙌
Attendees dived deep into big ideas, connected with colleagues across the country, and explored how Skills and Learning are the Foundations for a Changing World.
Thank you to all our speakers, facilitators and delegates who made the magic happen!

🌊 What a way to set sail into the 2025 CEA Annual Conference!
A huge thank you to Captain Cook Cruises for hosting our Welcome Drinks on Sydney Harbour — and to our generous Welcome Cruise Sponsor, Audit Express, for making it all happen. From stunning views to vibrant conversations, it was the perfect evening to connect and kick off the week. 🚢✨

🌟 Celebrating Our Trainers!
At last night’s Gala Dinner, we honoured not just our Trainer of the Year — but also two incredible educators who were awarded Highly Commended in recognition of their dedication and impact.

🎉 Congratulations to:
Gillian Hargans, Zeal Futures
Daniel Tame, Zeal Futures

These passionate trainers were acknowledged for their outstanding commitment to student growth, community learning, and the power of education.

We made sure both Gillian and Daniel had their time in the spotlight — because being Highly Commended means they are still absolute champions of community education. 🏆

🌟 Still Winner's in our eyes!
At the 2025 CEA Gala Dinner, we proudly celebrated not only our Student of the Year — but also two remarkable Highly Commended finalists who truly represent the heart of community education.

🎉 Congratulations to:
Sharna Aitken, Community College Northern Inland
Christine Fielding, Zeal Futures

Both students were recognised for their resilience, determination, and powerful learning journeys — and we made sure they had their moment to shine on stage.

They may not have taken the top title, but they are absolutely winners in our eyes. 💫
Thank you for inspiring us all!

🏆 Trainer of the Year – 2025 CEA Annual Conference
A huge congratulations to Crystal Bowden from WEA Illawarra, awarded Trainer of the Year at our Gala Dinner last night!

Crystal’s dedication, passion, and impact in the classroom have made a lasting difference to her students and community. Well done!

🏆 Student of the Year – 2025 CEA Annual Conference
We’re thrilled to announce that Luke Kennedy from Tuggerah Lakes Community College has been awarded Student of the Year at last night’s Gala Dinner!

Luke’s commitment to learning and personal growth inspired us all. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! 👏

🎉 The 2025 CEA Conference is here!
We’re all set up and ready for check-in on Level 2, Sydney Harbour Marriott – come and collect your lanyard anytime before 4:00pm ahead of two big days of learning and connection.

Not coming today? Join us tonight for the Welcome Cruise. Meet us at Wharf 6, Circular Quay at 5:20pm for a Smoking Ceremony with Aunty Margaret, or at 5:45pm to board Captain Cook 3.

The conference kicks off tomorrow from 9:00am. Lanyards can also be collected from 8:00am at the Marriott.

Let’s go!