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Local student wins Torrens University Bright Awards

Torrens University 3 mins read

Audrey Kennedy, Abbotsleigh student has been recognised as a winner at Torrens University Australia’s 2024 Bright Awards which supports arts in high schools as a way of inspiring career options for future creative leaders.  

 

Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside, Executive Dean, Design and Creative Technology, said the Bright Awards illustrate Torrens University’s commitment to supporting design and creative technologies in high schools and inspiring students to get a taste of pitching their work to the wider world in preparation for careers in design and media. 

“At Torrens University, we are committed to helping students harness their creative talents and start to become industry-ready and in demand by a range of organisations that value design. Entering the Bright Awards gives high school students the opportunity to spread their wings in a competition where they are challenged to show off and extend their skills and have their work assessed by industry experts. 

Our Billy Blue College of Design courses and degrees help students harness their creative talents and build the skills employers look for, so they graduate work-ready: entering awards are valuable skills to have when working in the design industry. 

“The Bright Awards also offers monetary prizes for both students and schools which go towards kick-starting their creative dreams,” said Scott. 

Meet the 2024 Bright Award Winners 

  • Architecture & Interiors: Audrey Kennedy, Abbotsleigh 
    Judge’s comment: “Audrey’s project showcases high-level skills in 3D modelling and rendering. Her comprehensive research and professional presentation set her work apart.” 

  • Digital Technology: Rachel Razunguzwa, Springfield Central State High School 
    Judge’s comment: “Rachel’s user-centric design thinking and innovative use of current and emerging technologies impressed the judges.”  

Commendation: Vivian Chi, Abbotsleigh 

  • Fashion Design, Marketing & Textiles: Luke Suttie, Oxley College 
    Judge's comment: "Highly original in concept, Luke provided a thorough documentation of his design thinking process. Through concept inspiration, experimentation exercises and problem-solving, Luke demonstrated excellent design skills leading to a brilliant final project outcome. Incorporating various advanced technologies alongside handcrafted elements, Luke’s submission was a standout entry in the 2024 Fashion category Bright Awards. 

  • Photography: Calissa Macare, Our Lady of Mercy College Parramatta 
    Judge’s comment: “Calissa’s series on floral ice sculptures is a testament to her meticulous composition and striking visual narrative.” 

  • Visual Arts: Eesha Chand, Arndell Anglican College 
    Judge’s comment: “Eesha’s work demonstrates exceptional precision, creativity, and a high standard of artistic excellence.” 

  • Media Arts & Gaming: Oscar Fox, Oxley College 
    Judge’s comment: “Oscar’s film offers a relatable and impactful perspective on a real-world issue, resonating deeply with its audience.” 

Pinnacle Award in Creativity & Innovation Excellence 

The Pinnacle Award, recognising the highest achievement in creativity and innovation, was awarded to Media Arts & Gaming category winner Oscar Fox for his film Limbo. The judges praised the film’s originality, strong narrative, and effective use of film techniques to address a complex issue. 

About the Bright Awards 

The Bright Awards recognise up-and-coming designers and tech enthusiasts from Years 10, 11 and 12 supporting the future of creative arts in high schools across Australia and New Zealand.   

The awards are a design and creative technology competition providing students an opportunity to show off their skills and highly sought after recognition and feedback from industry experts. Each category winner is awarded $1000 and a complimentary Creative Cloud licence in partnership with Adobe to help kickstart their creative dreams and careers.  

This year’s competition featured six categories: Architecture and Interiors, Digital Technology, Fashion Design, Marketing & Textiles, Media Arts and Gaming, Photography, and Visual Arts. 

Special thanks to our category award judges and academic team: Melissa O’Brien, Russell Ponting, Daniel Coelho, Tony Jan, Dan Staines, Jamal Knight, Andrew Marsh, Tristian Bunn, and Elicia Simon. 

For more information 

Find out about next year’s Awards, upcoming open days and other opportunities by connecting with Billy Blue College of Design social channels.  

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