First-year electrotechnology apprentice, Liam Rees was announced as the recipient of the 2025 Audi Foundation–Country Education Foundation Rising Star Award at an event at NSW Parliament House.
Liam was honoured during the 2025 Audi Foundation-CEF Alumni Awards – a signature event on the Country Education Foundation (CEF) calendar. The Awards honour five past and present CEF-supported students who demonstrate merit, commitment and dedication to their studies or training, and are making standout contributions in their communities.
The Audi Foundation–Country Education Foundation Rising Star Award is presented to a current student in their first or second year with a bright future and demon-strated commitment to achieving their goals.
CEF CEO Wendy Mason said Liam received the Award due to his commitment to his training pathway, personal growth and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
“In addition to demonstrating commitment to his trade, his peers said Liam always had a positive attitude, good humour, and a great work ethic which uplifted those around him,” Ms Mason said.
“This reflects the true embodiment of what it means to be a rising star in the local community.”
Liam was pleasantly surprised to receive the Award. “I was very surprised, but I’m super grateful and happy to be selected as the recipient of the Rising Star Award,” Liam said.
Liam noted the integral role his local foundation, the Country Education Foundation of Cootamundra has played in supporting his career journey. The grant funding assisted him to embark on his training pathway and gave him confidence he could cover the costs associated, especially the all-important expense of purchasing tools.
“The grants I received this year meant a lot to me, as it took loads of pressure off me having to find the money to get the tools I needed for my course,” Liam said.
“I think the work my local foundation does for young people is incredible. They are great at assisting students achieve their goals.”
Liam continues to reside in regional Australia and feels a solid connection to regional communities, wishing to one day to pay back the support he has received.
“I will always have a connection to rural Australia as I grew up here and think it’s really important to give back to the community as that little bit of help could go a long way for some-one else,” Liam said.
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