Vale Elaine McNamara

CVGT Australia is mourning the loss of one of its founders, the remarkable Elaine McNamara. 

Elaine was instrumental in setting up the original apprenticeship scheme in the Bendigo area that would become Central Victorian Group Training, and later CVGT. 

She was presented with life membership of our organisation when she retired from the board in 2016. 

“Elaine has proven to be the backbone of this company,” former CVGT chief executive Paul Green said at the time. 

“She started the first Bendigo group apprenticeship scheme with the then four shires of Marong, Eaglehawk, Strathfieldsaye and Bendigo – this was the beginning of CVGT Australia.” 

“Elaine earned the respect of her peers over the years with her enthusiasm and willingness to accept and support the diversity of the different programs to build a stronger and more successful CVGT.” 

CVGT Australia was just one of many community organisations to benefit from her dedicated service over the years, along with the Australian Labor Party, Bendigo Community Health Services and Kangaroo Flat Community House. 

She also served as a councillor and was presented with a Centenary Medal in 2001 to recognise her contribution to local government. 

Our thoughts are with Elaine’s family, friends and former colleagues.