Congratulations to the winners and finalists of the Central Queensland region. Winners were announced online on 11 September 2020.
Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year
Regional winner: Riley Stewart
Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade
Training provider: Hastings Deering (Australia) Limited
Employer: Hastings Deering (Australia) Limited
If something needs fixing, ask Riley Stewart! He has an innate knack for all things mechanical. An opportunity at the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy Oresome Trade Camp set Riley on his mechanical trade career path. With a laser-like focus and determination, Riley completed all his competencies early and his apprenticeship was signed off by the end of his third year. During this time, he was recognised by his employer and named Hastings Deering's 2nd Year Apprentice of the Year in 2018.
Riley now 'pays it forward' by sharing his knowledge, values and experiences with upcoming apprentices and recruits at Hastings Deering.
Regional finalists
Jake Brown
Qualification: Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
Training provider: CQUniversity Australia
Employer: Anglo Coal (Moranbah North Management) Pty Limited
Kimberley Wallace
Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts – Interpreting)
Training provider: MTA Institute
Employer: Morgan Motors
Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year
Regional winner: Esther Olney
Qualification: Certificate III in Local Government (Regulatory Services)
Training provider: Learning Knowing Achieving Pty Ltd
Employer: Isaac Regional Council
Esther started the search for her career industry as an ambitious high school student. Looking for something different, she tried out roles and industries, and explored various training opportunities, eventually discovering her passion in local government. Working for the Isaac Regional Council, Esther completed her Local Government traineeship.
Esther also volunteers for the Moranbah SES and represents the Isaac Regional Council through her community services. Her future ambition is to become a Water Rescue Officer.
Regional finalists
Taleiyah Minniecon
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: Australian College of Commerce and Management
Group training organisation: Maxima Group Training
Host employer: National Australia Bank, Victoria Street Mackay Branch
Kye O'Reilly
Qualification: Certificate III in Process Plant Operations
Training provider: Queensland Alumina Limited
Employer: Queensland Alumina Limited
Vocational Student of the Year
Regional winner: Tania Paulson
Qualification: Certificate IV in Education Support
Training provider: Fast Track Training Australia
Employer: Anakie State School
As a confident mature-aged woman and working mother, Tania was motivated by her passion for learning and a love of working with children to complete her Certificate IV in Education Support.
Tania's journey has provided a career pathway in education, as well as personal and professional growth. Tania is an advocate for lifelong learning and skills development, which she shares with her family and the wider community of Sapphire.
Regional finalists
Kaitlyn Bellamy
Qualification: Certificate III in Hospitality
Training provider: Training Unlimited
Employer: Hungry Jack's (Rockhampton South)
William Shepherdson
Qualification: Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot – Visual Line of Sight)
Training provider: BASAIR Aviation College
School: Marist College, Emerald
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Regional winner: Shania Evans
Qualification: Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety
Training provider: CQUniversity Australia
Employer: Rockhampton Regional Council
As a young Indigenous working mother, Shania prides herself on being a role model for other women and mothers within her community.
In 2016, Shania's partner was involved in a serious workplace incident, resulting in a significant injury. This experience prompted Shania to apply for a role as a Safety Trainee with Rockhampton Regional Council, which lead to a full-time position as a Safety Support Officer. During this time, she completed her Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety.
Shania is committed to furthering her career and is now continuing her studies toward a Diploma of Work Health and Safety through CQUniversity Australia.
Regional finalists
Taleiyah Minniecon
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: Australian College of Commerce and Management
Group training organisation: Maxima Group Training
Host employer: National Australia Bank, Victoria Street Mackay Branch
Maddison Petrie
Qualification: Certificate II in Engineering (Production)
Training provider: CQUniversity Australia
Group training organisation: Programmed Skilled Workforce Limited
Host employer: ShellQGC
School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
Regional winner: Sophie James
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: Australian Trade Training College
Group training organisation: MRAEL Group
Host employer: Central Highlands Regional Council
School: Marist College
Sophie is a focused young woman. While completing school, she also worked towards completing a Certificate III in Business – with her sights set on achieving her dream of owning a business in the equine industry.
Sophie continually demonstrates purpose, integrity and determination, and exemplifies an individual who has a positive influence on those around her.
Sophie has been recognised for her achievements at school, in the community and for her sporting prowess. These accomplishments and her commitment to training have helped her forge a solid foundation in business and as a leader.
Regional finalists
Zaiden Browning
Qualification: Certificate II in Information, Digital Media and Technology
Training provider: AXIOM College
Employer: Longreach State High School P&C
School: Longreach State High School
Ellisha Pighills
Qualification: Certificate III in Companion Animal Services
Training provider: Skills Generation Pty Ltd
Employer: PURRRFECTION GROOMING
School: Pioneer State High School
Equity VET Student of the Year
Regional winner: Helena Kidd
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: CQUniversity Australia
Studious, determined, role model, achiever and a can-do attitude are just a few of the terms that have been used to describe Helena.
Taking the road less travelled, Helena commenced her learning journey seven years ago. As a non-verbal young lady with cerebral palsy, she redefined the traditional teacher and student roles. She has imparted her own way of learning, knowledge and experience upon her teachers while forging some wonderful relationships and lifelong friends.
Since completing her Certificate III in Business in 2019, Helena has more confidence and willpower to continue to strive to utilise her learned skills to gain employment within medical administration.
Regional finalists
Jacob Knight
Qualification: Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot – Visual Line of Sight)
Training provider: BASAIR Aviation College
Tania Paulson
Qualification: Certificate IV in Education Support
Training provider: Fast Track Training Australia
Employer: Anakie State School
VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year
Regional winner: Hardy Manser
Employer: The Rockhampton Grammar School
It is said that a great teacher inspires and that is certainly the case with Hardy. With a working background in science, agriculture and education and extensive industry connections, Hardy's contribution to VET at The Rockhampton Grammar School is both innovative and progressive.
His knowledge and real-world approach delivers a first-class agriculture curriculum for his students. His learning methodologies and training delivery are having real and positive impacts for Central Queensland's agricultural sector and its farming communities.
Regional finalists
Kirsty O'Regan
Employer: CQUniversity Australia
Debbie Wiggins
Employer: CQUniversity Australia
Community Training Initiative of the Year
Regional winner: Multicultural Australia
Program: Tucker Time
www.multiculturalaustralia.org.au
(07) 4921 2222
Established for more than 21 years, Multicultural Australia exists and serves to create a welcoming, inclusive and economically stronger community for Rockhampton. With its community and industry links and partnerships, Multicultural Australia delivers quality employment and training programs with strong employment outcomes, such as its Tucker Time project.
Whether a newly arrived refugee, a person with disability or a mum returning to the workforce, Multicultural Australia is there to assist.
Large Employer of the Year
Regional winner: Mastermyne
www.mastermyne.com.au
(07) 4963 0400
Founded in Mackay in 1996 by 2 mining mates, Andrew Watts and Darren Hamblin, from the back of a ute, Mastermyne is one of Australian mining's most trusted contractors. It holds a leading position in Queensland and New South Wales.
Employing approximately 1,100 people, including 13 apprentices and 47 trainees, Mastermyne lives by the ethos of—Stronger values, greater results. This ethos shapes its decisions, actions and behaviours, including its commitment to training.
Regional finalists
Civeo Pty Ltd
www.civeo.com
1300 732 911
Mackay Regional Council
www.mackay.qld.gov.au
1300 622 529
Medium Employer of the Year
Regional winner: NFR Holdings Pty Ltd
(McDonald's Northern Beaches, East Mackay and Food Court Canelands)
www.mcdonalds.com.au
(07) 4953 5533
A family-owned business, NFR Holdings operates three McDonald's stores in Mackay – Rural View, East Mackay and Canelands.
NFR Holdings has a robust training and leadership program complemented by a commitment to nurture talent and give back to the community. They look to develop leaders and reward achievements. NFR Holdings continue to innovate and invest in training.
Small Employer of the Year
Regional winner: Jodi's Salon
www.facebook.com/jodissalons
(07) 4982 2022
Jodi's Salon is located in Emerald and has been servicing the Central Highlands Region for over 26 years. Jodi, a qualified hairdresser, started with just herself and a second-year apprentice. Since then, business has prospered and success has followed allowing Jodi to create apprenticeship opportunities.
Jodi has employed 121 apprentices over the years and currently has 19 employees, including 11 apprentices completing Certificate III in Hairdressing. Jodi continually invests in highly reputable education programs for her employees to ensure quality training and career opportunities.
Regional finalists
Gina.T Hair & Beauty Mackay
www.ginathair.com.au
(07) 4951 3970
Taylored Automotive Services
www.facebook.com/TayloredAutomotive
(07) 4958 2290
Last updated 11 September 2020
