Dubbo College South Campus student Zachary Finlay has received a new award now being offered annually to students right across the federal Parkes electorate.

Zach has made outstanding progress in vocational learning for his studies in the automotive industry and received the award last week in person from the Federal Member for Parkes, Jamie Chaffey.

Mr Chaffey has offered the nearly 50 secondary schools throughout the vast electorate the opportunity to present the Member for Parkes Vocational Student of the Year Award to the student they believe has been the most dedicated to their vocational learning.

“There are inspirational schools in the Parkes electorate, with staff and leadership teams who work hard to get the best result for their students,” Mr Chaffey said.

“It’s important for those students to know there are many different paths they can choose.

“We all have different journeys to contribute to our nation. My own start came as an apprentice boilermaker, and that has led to an almost 30-year career in business before becoming an elected member of the Federal Parliament of Australia," Mr Chaffey added.

“I hope these awards help to give students the encouragement and the confidence they need to continue to pursue their vocation. Australia needs more ‘tradies’, and young people who study in every vocational area are taking a step in helping to drive Australia forward.”

Each student presented with the award will also receive a gift.