Mitchell Gordon Memorial Scholarship established to support TasTAFE Electrotechnology learners

L–R: David Gordon, 2025 Mitchell Gordon Memorial Scholarship recipient Iris Rimmer, Leesa Gordon and Mykaela Howell at TasTAFE’s Clarence Campus.

When young electrician Mitchell Gordon passed away at the end of 2024, his parents David and Leesa and sister Mykaela were devastated. But from their grief has come a new opportunity for TasTAFE Electrotechnology learners, celebrating life and learning – the Mitchell Gordon Memorial Scholarship.

David and Leesa Gordon established the $5,000 prize this year, to be awarded to a TasTAFE Electrotechnology learner annually for the next 25 years – an incredibly generous commitment.

The scholarship recognises a learner who demonstrates hard work, dedication and commitment – qualities that Mitchell embodied throughout his time at TasTAFE – but represents more than just achievement in the classroom and on the worksite.

TasTAFE hosted a presentation ceremony for the 2025 Mitchell Gordon Memorial Scholarship at the Water and Energy Trades Centre of Excellence at TasTAFE’s Clarence Campus on 28 November.

Speaking to the attendees – including Mitchell’s family, friends, colleagues, teachers and employers – TasTAFE Electrotechnology Education Manager Steve Cleary explained the Gordon family’s objectives.

“This award is not about being the best of the best,” Steve said. “It’s about someone who has overcome adversity and has supported their classmates, working through challenges together.”

Mitchell’s sister Mykaela Howell also spoke at the ceremony, delivering an eloquent, moving address on behalf of the Gordon family, further illuminating their intentions behind the scholarship.

“It reflects our family's hope that Mitchell's story, and the generosity behind this award, will help apprentices who may be struggling with their mental health, both now and into the future, as they navigate the demands of this industry,” Mykaela said.

“His passing has taught us how important it is to check-in with each other, to speak openly, and to ensure that support is available when someone is struggling. No one should ever feel alone. It is our hope that this scholarship not only recognises Mitchell's contribution to the electrical industry but also encourages apprentices to look after themselves and one another.”

David Gordon, himself an electrician for 44 years, was philosophical about Mitchell’s legacy and has chosen to stay positive.

“The minute we found out, we decided that we weren’t going to hide it and just ignore it – we were going to keep talking about it, if it'll help someone, to try and get something positive out of it,” David said – adding that he really doesn’t mind what the scholarship recipients do with their windfall.

“Becoming a tradesman is something that has greatly impacted my life: with a trade you can reach your goals in life. But if they say they’re going to have a trip with their boyfriend or girlfriend or they’re going to buy a car, we don't care. But hopefully it'll just help them get that little boost and improve their lives.

“Another reason for the award is that if apprentices are made aware of the scholarship each year, it might encourage them to try that little bit harder, and to talk about why we have the award.”

At the presentation ceremony, Steve Cleary announced that Iris Rimmer was the winner of the Mitchell Gordon Memorial Scholarship for 2025.

Iris, who works with Degree C and is nearing completion in her Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician course at TasTAFE, expressed her deep thanks to Mitchell’s family for the scholarship, and for their future support of the industry.

Selected by a panel of TasTAFE Electrotechnology teachers, Iris was recognised for her exceptional commitment to both her studies and practical training – and for her positive attitude.

“From the outset of her training, Iris has shown strong perseverance, overcoming personal challenges early in her apprenticeship while maintaining an exemplary standard of performance. She is regarded by her trainers as a role model within her group, and the panel felt that Iris represents the spirit of the Mitchell Gordon Memorial Scholarship exceptionally well,” the panel commented.

Iris is a worthy recipient – showing many of the qualities that Mitchell embodied, and that Mykaela highlighted in closing her speech.

“Mitchell had a way of lighting up any room he walked into – always ready with a joke, a kind word or a helping hand, never expecting anything in return. He had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel valued, no matter who they were or what they were going through. He connected with people effortlessly. He listened without judgement, supported others without hesitation, and carried himself with a quiet strength,” Mykaela said.

“These qualities are not only part of who he was – they are the legacy he leaves behind, and the qualities we hope this scholarship will continue to inspire in apprentices for many years to come.”

If this story has raised concerns for you or someone you know, call Triple Zero (000) for immediate help, or contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for free, confidential 24/7 counselling.

Mental health resources and helpful links can be found at beyondblue.org.au.