DATTA WA

Late last term, Piers Forder and I attended the DATTA Queensland Conference in Brisbane. The two-day event provided an excellent opportunity to participate in a range of valuable presentations, explore current developments in Design and Technology education, and network with teachers from across Australia.

One of the highlights of the conference was meeting with the Presidents and Executive teams from each state's DATTA Association (or equivalent). These discussions provided a valuable opportunity to share ideas, discuss common challenges, and strengthen collaboration across the country.

As part of the conference, the Presidents also participated in a panel discussion exploring key issues and future directions for Design and Technology education across Australia.

If you would like to view the presentations from the conference, they are available here:

https://www.dattaqld.org.au/conference/2026-conference-recordings/


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VALE - Steve Morris.

You may have met Steve Morris recently as a contractor for BMTM, inspecting and reporting on our school machines as part of Programmed Maintenance for the Department of Education.

Unfortunately, just over 12 months ago, Steve was diagnosed with liver cancer and passed away on the 2nd July 2026.

The story I would like to share is that Steve's affiliation with MATA (formerly DATTA WA) began about 35 years ago, when he was State Manager for Black and Decker, which later became DeWalt.

Steve reached out to MATA to encourage D+T Teachers to trade nights with food and drinks, while he demonstrated and explained their range of power tools. If I recall correctly, this range also covered the Elu range of power tools and the Black and Decker premium range. These nights became quite popular, and we believe the Beyond Tools Trade nights are a legacy of Steve's, as a result of joining Beyond Tools post-Dewalt.

As Steve hit the road, visiting schools and making deliveries in the metropolitan area, I was, for a time, convinced that Steve was the proprietor of Beyond Tools, driving that flash BMW.

Our acquaintance and paths recrossed again over the past few years, whether through his BMTM inspections or helping out around Beyond Tools. A passionate man with a constant smile, many a story or joke to share.

Steve leaves behind his wife Julie and their 3 daughters, along with daughters from a previous marriage and many grandchildren.

Regards
Mr Roland Penno

https://www.fwwa.org.au/ootw-exhibition

OOTW Exhibition | Fine Woodwork Association WA Proudly presented by the Fine Woodwork Association of Western Australia. Showcasing all forms of fine woodwork. From students, novices, and seasoned professionals, participants share their passion, creativity, and craftsmanship. Meet the members and enjoy this superb exhibition.

www.datta.wa.edu.au/conference

Back by popular demand — Jewellery PL with Phil Christmas (Only 8 places!). Join us on 19 March 2026, 3:30–6:30 pm at Woodvale Secondary College to make a ring or pendant, learn 3D printing & casting, and discover cost-saving electroplating techniques. Perfect for makers and jewellery enthusiasts. Book quickly — limited spots!

$25 per person - Secure your place: https://wix.to/Qimvqaz

Beyond Tools Educators Event - Wednesday 18th February

Please support the Associations supporters!

ATTENTION EDUCATORS
Nibbles & Drinks Provided + Raffle & Giveaways on the night
DEMO’S Latest school range of wood carving, metal working
machinery & handtools Kapex, dust extractors & sanders
CNC, CO2 Laser Machine
23 EXHIBITION DVE, MALAGA
9209 7400
RSVP [email protected]

Wednesday 18th February 4-6pm

Congratulations to Phillip Christmas. Phil has received the DATTA WA Leadership in Education Award for 2025. Phil is recognised nationally for his craftsmanship, but equally for his generosity as a mentor. His leadership has supported greater opportunity, access, and gender equity in this unique and important context.

Phil Christmas - Woodvale Secondary College

I graduated from ECU in 1991, fortunate to learn from exceptional lecturers like Andy McEwan and also supportive peers. My teaching career began at Ravensthorpe District High School, which gave me both a strong foundation and a wife. In 1996 I moved to Woodvale SC, where Charlie Tetlow introduced me to teaching Jewellery—my passion ever since. Since 2002 I have taught Jewellery almost exclusively from Years 9 to 12. I am grateful to the many giants who shaped my practice, including Ken Sampbell, Peter Forrest, Ken Westover, Roland Penno, Bill Vos, Paul Moro, and technicians Frank Thomas and David Castledini. Seeing students enter the Jewellery Industry or go on to ECU to become Technologies teachers has been a profound reward. I aim to share all I’ve learned and hope one day a former student will take my place. Outside school, I enjoy my kelpies, time in the shed, and worshipping Jesus at Bassendean Church of Christ. The love of my life and an amazing strengthener is my wife of 29 years, Karen.

Congratulations to Carl Scarfone. Carl is the DATTA WA Secondary Educator of the Year for 2025. A very worthy recipient doing great things in his school to the benefit of both his colleagues and students at Swan Valley Anglican Community School.

Carl Scarfone – Head of Department: Technologies
Carl Scarfone is an innovative educator dedicated to preparing students for a rapidly changing world. As Head of Department, he leads curriculum design and fosters learning that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and digital fluency. Carl has played a key role in embedding the SVACS Learner Profile within the Technologies learning area. He has actively contributed to the School’s New Metrics for Success Research Practice partnership with Melbourne Metrics at the University of Melbourne. This has been evidenced through his engagement with the implementation of the Australian Learner Competency Credential into Vocational Education and Training programs. He also champions VET, overseeing pathways through Certificate II in Furniture Making and Certificate II in Engineering, equipping students with practical skills and industry readiness. Beyond the classroom, Carl promotes Esports as a platform for teamwork and digital citizenship, leading student participation and achieving success in The Fuse Cup, an international Esports competition for schools.

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