By Jenni Kennedy

The award was announced by Deputy Mayor Julie Brooks, who congratulated the College for winning the 'Event of the Year' award for their community initiative.

St Mary of the Angels VCAL Team Leader, Melissa Knight said, “The VCAL and Applied Learning students at St Mary of the Angels work very hard each week as a part of their personal development skills, volunteering within the Nathalia community.
“We are very proud of these students who were nominated for this award by members of the local community. We are also very thankful for the Nathalia community for welcoming our students and providing an opportunity for the development of this partnership.”
St Mary of the Angels Principal, Matt Carver said he was proud of the staff and students who were involved in the event.  

“It’s a credit to our staff and students for their efforts throughout the year. We’re fortunate to be a part of such a wonderful community and to be afforded the opportunity to reaffirm that sense of community for our students,” Mr Carver said.

Councillor Brooks highlighted the importance of recognising the efforts of local communities. “The past 12 months have certainly been trying, with bushfires and then the global pandemic wreaking havoc," she said. “Without the Australia Day Awards many of these groups, organisations and individuals would go unrecognised."