TalkSmart Training founder Dawn Ferrier received the accolade in October at the Gold Coast conference for her dynamic first-aid training business.
    
                  
                                                                
                  
                                            
                              
        Ms Ferrier was recognised for her outstanding commitment to delivering high-quality, flexible and accessible training across regional and remote communities.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “Winning the Regional Training Champion award means so much to me and my business,” she said.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “It’s the perfect recognition of all the hard work, passion, long days — and even longer drives — that go into providing quality training to regional and remote communities.”
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        Basic and advanced first aid, asthma and anaphylaxis, mental health and child safety courses are among the services TalkSmart Training offers.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        The business has grown to deliver 44 nationally recognised courses across Victoria and beyond since it began in 2017.
    
                  
                                                                
                  
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        With a mobile training model and modified online learning options, Ms Ferrier ensures lifesaving skills are accessible to everyone.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        New parents, seniors, farmers, sporting clubs, healthcare workers, schools, childcare centres and remote workforces have benefited from her work.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “It is something I am incredibly honoured to share with the wonderful businesses and communities I work with every day,” Ms Ferrier said.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “If I can do something to help others, I’m there.”
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        The award reminded Ms Ferrier that her efforts to reach learners in every corner of the state were making a difference, and increased her motivation to support regional populations.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        Allens Training, a registered training organisation with more than 1300 trainers and 600 locations nationwide, praised Ms Ferrier’s innovative approach and community impact.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        The national recognition served to highlight the importance of keeping training local, inclusive and responsive to the unique needs of regional Australia.