The Australian Society for Music Education Victoria has announced the winners of its inaugural 2026 ASME Victoria Music Education Award, recognizing school educators who have advanced classroom and co-curricular music programs.
Asme reported that Katie Germaine of Gippsland Grammar received the award for cultivating an inclusive primary classroom and co-curricular music program connected to the local Gippsland community. Daniel van Bergen of Wantirna College was also recognized for leadership in developing and advocating for school and community music programs, according to Asme.
Asme said Aaron Chan and Jeffrey Clarke, both of Oxley College, received the 2026 ASME Victoria Music Education Commendation. Chan was recognized for creating meaningful music-making opportunities through alumni and staff ensembles, while Clarke was cited for building student participation and engagement in a school music program.
The celebration at Graduate House, University of Melbourne, also honored 2025 ASME Victoria Graduate Teacher Award recipients from Deakin University, Australian Catholic University and the University of Melbourne, Asme reported. Council members Sue Arney, Steph MacArthur and Katie-Hull Brown organized the initiative. Associate Professors Leon de Bruin and Brad Merrick were farewelled from the council, Asme said.
For more information, visit asme.edu.au.