Congratulations to the Central Queensland region's 2025 regional winners and finalists.
The regional final was held on 26 July 2025 at the Rockhampton Leagues Club.
Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Adam Dittman
Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering – Fixed and Mobile Plant Mechanic
Training provider: Blue Dog Training
Employer: Lee Crane Hire
Adam completed his diesel fitting trade through Blue Dog Training while employed at Lee Crane Hire in Biloela. Passionate about mechanics from a young age, he transformed hands-on experience into formal skills. His previous work in the explosives industry sharpened his problem-solving abilities, which he now passes on through mentoring. Adam's journey from apprentice to workshop manager highlights the impact that vocational training can have across any age group.
Finalists
Georgia Beveridge, Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
Aloisa Pacher, Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade
Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year
Winner: Chloe Hutchinson
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: CQUniversity
Employer: Gladstone Regional Council
Chloe completed her qualification through a traineeship with Gladstone Regional Council, overcoming personal challenges to build a stable future. She gained skills in administration, teamwork and leadership, securing a permanent role as a Fleet Officer. Chloe's dedication to mentoring trainees, promoting workplace culture and community engagement highlights her resilience and passion for professional growth.
Finalists
Shanae White, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Anna Whitmore, Certificate III in Business
Vocational Student of the Year
Winner: Kylie Johnston
Qualification: Certificate III in Horticulture
Training provider: CQUniversity Australia
Employer: Livingstone Regional Council
Kylie, a Bailai woman, has advanced her horticultural skills supporting her work at Livingstone Shire Council's Community Nursery. She educates volunteers on native plants and contributes to community wellbeing through gardening. Her resilience and leadership inspire lifelong learning. Kylie's commitment to overcoming challenges and representing Indigenous people highlights her as a role model for vocational education and cultural pride.
Finalists
Shane Anderson, Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management
Riccardo Yasso, Certificate III in Driving Operations
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Winner: Maddison Petrie
Qualification: Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician / Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control
Training provider: CQUniversity
Employer: Shell QCLNG
Maddison balances full-time work, study and parenting while completing qualifications in by Shell QGC, she mentors young women through UNIQ YOU and promotes Indigenous representation in trades. From her start in the Indigenous Pathway Program to becoming a qualified tradesperson, Maddison's resilience and dedication inspire others to pursue careers in the electrical and gas industries.
Finalists
Shaeli Carty, Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Fitting/Machining)
James Doyle, Certificate III in Civil Construction (Plant Operations)
School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
Winner: Jasmine Cook
Qualification: Certificate II in Animal Care
Training provider: Animal Industries Resource Centre
Employer: Maraboon Veterinary Surgery
School: Emerald State High School
From a young age, Jasmine has always loved working with animals. Through hands-on training with skilled vets, she's learning compassion, professionalism and teamwork. She embraces the challenges, including supporting grieving families, and is grateful for the guidance she receives through her school-based traineeship. Focused on becoming a veterinarian, Jasmine is excited to keep growing her skills and making a positive impact on animals' lives.
Finalists
Mikayla Capil, Certificate II in Community Pharmacy
Oram McGilvray, Certificate III in Carpentry
Equity Student of the Year
Winner: Sharee Ann Pryce
Qualification: Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations (Warehousing Operations)
Training provider: EDB Training
Employer: MACS Engineering
Sharee is a Torres Strait Islander woman and dedicated single mother who overcame personal challenges to pursue a career in warehousing. Through the Women in Warehousing program delivered by IDEAL Placements in Mackay, she gained valuable skills, including her forklift ticket. Now employed with MACS Engineering in the warehouse, Sharee continues to build her career while being a strong role model for her son and inspiring others in her community.
Finalists
Amber Stead, Certificate III in Laboratory Skills
Christine Yarnold, Certificate IV in Business
VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year
Winner: Andrew Abbas
Employer: CQUniversity Australia
Andrew brings 20 years of experience as a VET educator, leading apprenticeship programs and VET in Schools courses at CQUniversity's Emerald Campus. He mentors students from diverse backgrounds and implements innovative teaching methods. Andrew's contributions to programs like Glencore Apprenticeships and regional partnerships promote quality education and community engagement across the VET sector.
Finalists
Kristy Kennedy, Programmed Skilled Workforce
Community Training Initiative of the Year
Winner: Community Solutions
Program: Community Careers
Community Careers offers tailored support to women, First Nations people and migrants. Participants complete a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability and Aged Care) and gain practical experience through placements. With workshops in soft skills and job readiness, the program prepares individuals for high-demand sectors, fostering confidence and long-term employment opportunities.
Finalists
Ignite Your Opportunities – Apprentices and Trainees Queensland
Women in Warehousing – IDEAL Placements
Large Employer of the Year
Winner: Glencore Coal Assets Australia
Glencore Coal Assets Australia's Queensland apprenticeship program provides industry-leading training to 118 apprentices. With a training budget investment at just under half of the annual payroll, the organisation goes above and beyond to develop future tradespeople, focusing on emerging technologies like automation. Offering dual qualifications, hands-on experience and mentorship, the program ensures apprentices are equipped to thrive in a rapidly evolving mining sector, strengthening workforce capability and driving innovation.
Finalists
Gladstone Regional Council
Rockhampton Regional Council
Medium Employer of the Year
Winner: VAJ Byrne & Co Lawyers
V.A.J. Byrne & Co. Lawyers fosters professional development to ensure exceptional client service, with nearly half of its workforce involved in training. This includes business administration traineeships, legal studies and advanced qualifications like Masters of Laws. Tailored schedules and video-based resources support employees across Queensland and internationally, helping staff transition from trainees to senior solicitors and directors, enhancing client satisfaction and the firm's reputation.
Finalists
Grandma's Place
Xtreme Engineering Pty Ltd
Small Employer of the Year
Winner: Intuition The Art of Hair
Intuition The Art of Hair transforms hairdressing careers with apprenticeships, leadership and mentorship programs. Since 2011, the salon has grown to 17 professionals. Partnering with MIG Training, they offer top-tier training within an inclusive culture that empowers staff. Their focus on innovation and skills development cements their reputation as a leader in the industry.
Finalists
Giant Oak Learning
Kool Beanz Suns Harrup Park
Last updated 26 July 2025
