Breakthru College wins big in Townsville

by
Joshua Cook
|
October 23, 2025
Community Training Initiative Award

After a fantastic night in Townsville at the North Queensland Training Awards, we’re excited to announce that Breakthru College has won the Community Training Initiative of the Year Award for our Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) program!

The SQW initiative helps disadvantaged Queenslanders gain the vital skills needed to enter and thrive in the workforce. Our Townsville program has empowered many individuals to achieve qualifications they never thought possible, bolstering Queensland’s workforce. Our SQW program has helped many North Queenslanders realise their potential – such as Charlie, whose journey from stress to success highlights the transformative power of our support.

As a national not-for-profit, Breakthru College is dedicated to empowering those most in need through programs that target mental health, unemployment, disability, and homelessness. Winning the Community Training Initiative of the Year award is an honour that recognises the hard work and dedication of our Townsville team while celebrating our efforts in helping Queenslanders acquire the skills, experience, and qualifications needed to succeed in the workforce.

Queensland Training Awards 2024
Photography of the Queensland Training Awards (QTA) 2024 at the Southbank Convention Centre, Townsville, Queensland

But that’s not all! Breakthru College trainer Ann Hurst was also a finalist on the night. With over three decades of diverse experience, Ann is a powerhouse of vocational training. At breakthru College, she crafts courses that make complex concepts accessible while providing students with practical examples, job opportunities, and unwavering support. Ann’s nomination for VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year recognises her exceptional contributions.

Queensland Training Awards
Photography of the Queensland Training Awards (QTA) 2024 at the Southbank Convention Centre, Townsville, Queensland

We also had some student success on the night. Our student, Leigh Brown, was a finalist for Vocational Student of the Year. During her studies, Leigh has embodied determination and dedication. After completing her Certificate III in Individual Support and starting her career with breakthru Disability Services, she pursued a Certificate IV in Disability to further aid her community.

Photography of the Queensland Training Awards (QTA) 2024 at the Southbank Convention Centre, Townsville, Queensland
Photography of the Queensland Training Awards (QTA) 2024 at the Southbank Convention Centre, Townsville, Queensland

We couldn’t be prouder of our Townsville team. Here’s to many more education and training successes! Together, we’re changing lives and making a lasting impact, and we can’t wait to see where the future takes us.

Joshua Cook

With more than 10 years of industry experience coupled with a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) and Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting), Josh works as Marketing Manager, Disability Services from our office in Brisbane, Queensland.

Having grown up with his younger sister Katey, who was born with Down Syndrome, Josh has witnessed first hand the barriers and misconceptions placed around people with disability. As part of the Breakthru team, Josh hopes to assist people just like Katey find the information or supports they need to live their best life.
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Royal Rehab acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea, and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future and we extend our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples.
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