December 22nd, 2022New feat for Sebastian Streat: trainee award

Words: Eve Lamb | Image: Kyle Barnes

DAYLESFORD teenager Sebastian Streat has come a long way since the day a paediatrician once identified him as unlikely to ever attend school, or to read or write.
In fact the 18-year-old who lives life with mild autism has not just successfully completed year 12 through Daylesford College, he’s also just taken out the state’s title of Trainee of the Year (landscape gardening) attaining both the glory and CV enhancement, along with a beautiful trophy.
Announced at a special dinner in Melbourne recently, Sebastian’s award is a state-wide accolade, sponsored by the Kangan Institute, and administered through the Apprenticeship Employment Network.
Sebastian won the award after two years of school-based training to achieve his Certificate II in Landscaping, firstly completing a year of study through Ballarat’s Federation University and then, this year, completing a second year with Ballarat Group Training.
“He was nominated for the award through Ballarat Group Training and there were quite a number nominated from around the state,” Sebastian’s proud mum Krystal Phypers says.
“Being named as Trainee of the Year in landscape gardening is a real achievement for Sebastian. When he was first diagnosed with autism, a paediatrician said he would probably never go to school or read or write.
“I remember that day. I was 21 when I had Sebastian and I came out of that paediatrician’s office crying my eyes out. I walked out saying, ‘No. We’re going to prove this paediatrician wrong’.
“Now he’s just finished year 12. He has got such a passion for gardening. He is quite particular and he is a very hard worker. He has really enjoyed his training and met some wonderful friends. I think he loves gardening because it’s his outlet.”
Now Sebastian says he is keen to secure an apprenticeship in the field that he loves. “He would really like to get an apprenticeship now with the Hepburn Shire. That’s his dream,” Krystal says.