Congratulations to the Metropolitan region's 2025 winners and finalists.
The regional final was held on 25 July 2025 at Brisbane City Hall.
Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Jessica Bichsel
Qualification: Certificate III in Carpentry
Training provider: Realistic Training Options
Employer: Skill Set Building Pty Ltd
In addition to renovation work, Jessica has 5 years' experience in set building for film, TV and theatre. She has contributed to sets for Australian feature films and major events like the 2022 Logies. Jessica serves as an Ambassador for Awesome Women in Construction and won their 2024 Outstanding Woman in Trade award. She mentors youth and women returning to trades, co-hosts the 'Let's Talk Tradies' podcast, and actively engages in community building and educational projects.
Finalists
James Hickey, Certificate III in Hairdressing
Ali Maher, Certificate III in Painting and Decorating
Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year
Winner: Monika Bastowska
Qualification: Certificate III in Individual Support
Training provider: Skills Generation
Employer: Wesley Mission Queensland
Monika transitioned into aged care with Wesley Mission Queensland, completing her Certificate III in Individual Support with exceptional speed, finishing her course in just 3 months. Her strong leadership and compassionate approach to care have made her a mentor for new trainees. Monika's focus on delivering high-quality, person-centred care reflects her commitment to improving the lives of elderly Australians and advocating for the aged care sector.
Finalists
Bomai Mori, Certificate III in Business
Layla Saltner, Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance
Vocational Student of the Year
Winner: Engy Abdalla Gamar
Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Training provider: St James College
Engy, a Sudanese-Australian student and College Captain, developed skills in health services assistance inspired by family medical experiences. She champions inclusivity and leads cultural events at her college. Engy's resilience in overcoming societal expectations and her passion for healthcare underscore her dedication to vocational learning, leadership and advocacy for diversity within healthcare professions.
Finalists
Lachey Button-Wright, Certificate II in Salon Assistant / Certificate II in Retail Cosmetics
Molly Elizabeth Carter, Certificate II in Furniture Making
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Winner: Jackson Vitale
Qualifications: Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation / Certificate III in Business / Certificate II in Electrotechnology
Training provider: St James College
Jackson, a proud Aboriginal man, is pursuing a range of qualifications to prepare for a career in the Australian Defence Force. His training has developed his leadership, technical and communication skills. As a First Nations Ambassador at St James College, he mentors younger students and promotes vocational education. Through cultural programs and community involvement, he inspires others to embrace their heritage and pursue meaningful career pathways.
Finalists
Chantelle Binstead, Certificate III in Parks and Gardens
Isaah English, Certificate III in Plumbing
School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
Winner: Amy McCann
Qualification: Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance
Training provider: Divtec Training College
Employer: Metro North Health
School: Grace Lutheran College
Amy, a Year 12 student, wanted to work alongside healthcare professionals while gaining practical knowledge, experience and exposure to real-world healthcare settings. At Brighton Health Campus, she supports patients alongside physiotherapists and occupational therapists. Her traineeship has strengthened her communication and teamwork skills, fuelling her ambition to continue in allied health services.
Finalists
Isabella Becker, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Henry Waters, Certificate III in Barbering
Equity Student of the Year
Winner: Engy Abdalla Gamar
Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Training provider: St James College
Engy is pursuing a career in healthcare, driven by personal experience and a passion for helping others. She has navigated cultural expectations and traditional family values, breaking through prejudice to succeed in her studies. Through training, Engy developed strong communication and empathy skills, learning to convey complex information with clarity and consideration. Engy is committed to delivering compassionate care and improving health outcomes for diverse communities.
Finalists
Justin Hua, Diploma of Counselling
India McGuinness, Diploma of Mental Health / Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs (Dual Diploma)
VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year
Winner: Nigel Gorman
Employer: Aussie Painters Network
Since founding Aussie Painters Network 15 years ago, Nigel has trained over 900 apprentices. Seeing a need for better skilling, he established a purpose-built facility in Brisbane and a mobile training unit for regional areas, providing hands-on support and mentoring. His initiatives, including Women in Painting and Painting Your Career, promote diversity, innovation and business skills, making him a champion for providing quality training that leads to long-term outcomes and industry growth.
Finalists
Ruby Harrison, National Institute for Construction Skills Queensland
Andrea Smith, Queensland College of Music
Community Training Initiative of the Year
Winner: SunnyFutures – Sunnybank State High School P&C
Program: SunnyFutures Ready for Work
The SunnyFutures Ready for Work program supports early school leavers, graduating students and members of the local community transition to sustainable employment through tailored career planning, job readiness training and work placements in high-demand sectors. With a 98% employment success rate in 2024, it addresses barriers like cultural differences and socio-economic challenges, fostering resilience and creating long-term career opportunities.
Finalists
Greening North Brisbane – Sandgate and Bracken Ridge Action Group Incorporated (SANDBAG Inc)
Wesley Mission Queensland Traineeship Programs – Wesley Mission Queensland Limited
Large Employer of the Year
Winner: Hastings Deering (Australia)
Hastings Deering leads workforce development with a globally recognised apprenticeship program and 14 nationally accredited courses. Employees gain skills in mobile plant technology and hybrid machinery. Through the Future Skills Hub and leadership programs, the company prepares staff for emerging technologies. With an averaged of 35 hours of formal training per employee per year, supplemented by extensive on-the-job learning, Hastings Deering promotes continuous learning and future workforce readiness.
Finalists
McDonald's Australia
McNab
Medium Employer of the Year
Winner: Brisbane Insulation
Brisbane Insulation, part of the Energy Efficiency Group, is Queensland's premier specialist insulation provider. The company offers nationally recognised training and leadership pathways for its 40+ team members. As the first Australian insulation provider to achieve international accreditation across quality, safety and environmental standards, Brisbane Insulation prioritises continuous learning, positioning itself as an industry leader in energy-efficient solutions and operational excellence.
Finalists
CRA Construction
Farmhouse Kedron
Small Employer of the Year
Winner: Blondee
Founded in 2019, Blondee has 3 salons in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast. They offer structured apprentice programs, in-salon training and external courses. Their model includes fortnightly hands-on sessions, mentorship and personalised progress tracking. The Blondee Education platform empowers stylists nationwide, cementing their reputation for growth and innovation.
Finalists
AllBrand Caravan Services
Trigar Plumbing
Last updated 29 July 2025
