Students get helping hand

Five of the top graduates of TAFE NSW - Sydney Institute's East Sydney Fashion Design Studio will be sitting pretty during Mercedes Australian Fashion Week having secured a deal to promote their wares at a well-known hotel in Sydney's Circular Quay.
Students Amy Mangan, Micaela Ezra, Michael Challita, Katya Peker and Karina Pires (As part of the offering, each student will also receive a perspex box - complete with bio - in which to feature parts of his or her collection in the hotel lobby. It is understood course tutor Nicholas Huxley will also be offered a separate room for personal use during the five-day extravaganza.
While Marriott spokesperson Laura Speirs was reluctant to divulge the cost of the sponsorship deal, she confirmed the hotel also planned to stage an elaborate party in the students' honour at the conclusion of their showings. They will also be offered accommodation for the night of the party.
This is the second year in a row the hotel has had links with the TAFE after offering a similar deal to fledging ready-to-wear/jewellery designer Andrea Cainero at last year's event.