Congratulations to Central Queensland's 2024 regional winners and finalists.
The regional final was held on 6 July 2024 at Gladstone Entertainment and Convention Centre.
Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Tyler Gscheidle
Qualification: Certificate III in Carpentry
Training provider: Blue Dog Training
Employer: Werry Building
A passion for building and construction led Tyler into this carpentry apprenticeship with Werry Building. Building his hands-on experience and being part of a small team that is full of high spirits and open communication brings him joy and fulfilment. He has completed his apprenticeship and has now taken on a lead role within the business, guiding and mentoring apprentices. Beyond his workplace, Tyler officiates community rugby league matches and works as a church youth leader.
Finalists
Ainsley Downie, Certificate III in Electrotechnology / Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control
Chloe White, Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year
Winner: Chloe Cameron
Qualification: Certificate III in Water Industry Operations
Training provider: Simmonds and Bristow
Employer: Rockhampton Regional Council
To build her environmental management and water quality career, Chloe completed a full-time traineeship while studying part-time at university. Through hands-on experience in various water treatment roles and guidance from an environmental scientist mentor, Chloe's initiative and collaborative skills have positively influenced her workplace's processes. She also engaged with other industry professionals at the Water Industry Operators Association conference and shared new insights with her team.
Finalists
Keione Hulme-Moir, Certificate III in Live Production and Technical Services
Charli Sharam, Certificate IV in Human Resources Management
Vocational Student of the Year
Winner: Jacqueline Grundy
Qualification: Certificate II in Timber and Wood Products Operations
Training provider: NTHA Training
Employer: Parkside Group
Jacqueline begin her journey in the timber industry after 14 years in retail. From working in the log yard, she became a proficient twin saw operator and quickly advanced to mill supervisor. Jacqueline now oversees a team of 50 workers and took up formal study to enhance her skills and experience. She advocates for others to take up formal training and supports their studies too. Her training journey has helped her navigate unforeseen issues and excel in a leadership role.
Finalists
Lincoln Barton, Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership
Jana Sykorova, Certificate III in Marine Habitat Conservation and Restoration
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Winner: Bevin Querro
Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology
Training provider: TAFE Queensland
Employer: Hastings Deering
Bevin tinkered with cars in high school which led him to complete a mobile plant technology apprenticeship. Following this dream meant moving from his home in Bowen to Mackay but with the support of his colleagues, he has completed his second trade with Hastings Deering in auto electrics. Bevin is an avid supporter of new apprentices and talks with First Nations students in the Clontarf Foundation. Adding to this list of achievements, he has also played in the Murri Rugby League Carnival.
Finalists
Zetaya-Maree Carr, Certificate III in Business
Kasey Vaughan, Certificate III in Individual Support
School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
Winner: Chelsea Bostock
Qualification: Certificate III in Hairdressing
School: St Patrick's College Mackay
Training provider: CQUniversity Australia
Employer: Intuition – The Art of Hair
Chelsea balanced the last 3 years of her schooling with starting her career in hairdressing. Having completed a Certificate II in Salon Assistant in Year 10, she now dedicates 1 day a week at Intuition – The Art of Hair while excelling academically. Her hands-on training involves providing salon services, learning product knowledge, and team-building exercises. She also completed training in other beauty-based skills to demonstrate her passion and commitment to the industry.
Finalists
Madeline Rossiter, Certificate III in Sport and Recreation
William Price, Certificate III in Sport and Recreation
Equity Student of the Year
Winner: Denise Cotter
Qualification: Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Training provider: MOM Trading College
Employer: Grandma's Place
Denise has overcome significant barriers to achieve her dream of becoming an early childhood educator. Starting her qualification in Year 11, with the support of her grandparents, school staff and undertaking after-school tutoring, Denise completed her traineeship and work placement opportunities. Her determination, resilience and persistence led to full-time employment at Grandma's Place where she aims to make a difference to each child in her care.
Finalists
Izaiah Daniels, Certificate II and Certificate III in Hospitality
Callie Eadie, Certificate III in Business
VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year
Winner: Gareth Hartley
Employer: MTA Institute
Gareth has over 30 years' experience in the automotive industry. He is a dedicated VET educator who completed a fitting and turning apprenticeship in New Zealand, worked as a forensic crash investigator and been a business owner himself. This has enriched his current role as a trainer with MTA Institute, where he has contributed to programs like 'Auto Ready'. His teaching style and approach to learning, combined with his extensive experience, ensures that his students excel in the industry.
Finalists
Renae Dobson, Central Queensland University
Sally Munns, Pioneer State High School
Community Training Initiative of the Year
Winner: Emerald Neighbourhood Centre
Program name: Get Set for Work Program
Supporting young people in the Central Highlands, this project delivers tools for personal growth and work readiness. Participants study the Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways plus other training and individual support as part of a fun and engaging program. With a network of stakeholders and offering referrals to other agencies to address complex barriers, participants have found jobs, apprenticeships, traineeships and pursued further training.
Finalists
Central Queensland Multicultural Association – Skilling Queenslanders for Work
Community Solutions – Skilling Queenslanders for Work Project Mackay
Large Employer of the Year
Winner: Central Highlands Regional Council
Serving 13 communities, Central Highlands Regional Council employs around 450 staff to deliver needed services, including current apprentices and trainees in engineering, youth work and information technology and existing workers studying civil construction, waste management and other qualifications. This training, along with recognised tickets and competencies to perform tasks safely, supports staff retention, productivity and developing needed skills including water operations.
Finalists
Queensland Alumina Limited
NFR Holdings (McDonalds Mackay East, Northern Beaches and Canelands Central)
Small Employer of the Year
Winner: Johnson's 4WD
Since opening the Rockhampton business 7 years ago, investing in their staff has been a focus for owners Nathan and Nyree Johnson. Their commitment to continuous learning is evidence in their partnership with CQUniversity, providing specialised four-wheel drive repair training and advanced apprenticeships, along with digital learning and peer-led masterclasses. The shop's inclusive approach fosters a supportive environment that enhances employee growth and expertise.
Finalists
Edison Hair Collective
Intuition The Art of Hair
Last updated 6 July 2024
