Congratulations to North Coast's 2024 regional winners and finalists.
The regional final was held on 26 July 2024 at The Events Centre, Caloundra.
Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Madeline Chamberlin
Qualification: Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Training provider: TAFE Queensland
Group training organisation: WPC Group
Employer: Mercedes-Benz Brisbane Eagle Farm
Madeline aimed to turn her passion for cars into a career through an automotive apprenticeship. She stood out as a promising talent, winning a 2021 award and an international scholarship in the UK, which enhanced her skills, confidence, and networking relationships. Having shown determination to overcome challenges, including working in a male-dominated industry, Madeline found her voice and is now employed at Mercedes-Benz Brisbane where she continues to inspire and mentor future apprentices.
Finalists
Matthew Roberts, Certificate III in Carpentry
Layla Youngberry, Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology
Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year
Winner: Tessa Wallace OLY
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: Flexible Training Solutions
Employer: World Wide Boat Brokers
Former Olympic swimmer Tessa was looking for a new career and, inspired by the success of her parents' business, pursued her traineeship to help her workplace to grow. This path enhanced her knowledge, while boat photography and video production skills have boosted the company's marketing efforts. Her leadership, positivity, and communication skills help build team morale. She is an active fundraiser and ambassador for Lyme disease and hopes to use her qualification to build a rewarding career.
Finalists
Sheryl Nimmo, Diploma of Business
Sam Young, Certificate III in Business
Vocational Student of the Year
Winner: Alexandra Hayes-Hatten
Qualification: Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management
Training provider: TAFE Queensland
Employer: ECOllaboration
A love of wildflowers and bushwalking launched Alexandra into the conservation industry. With a positive attitude, she studied for a career in bush regeneration, fostered industry connections and developed skills in botany and project management. She is now ECOllaboration's Training and Development Project Manager, facilitating traineeships and managing projects like Sunshine Coast BioBlitz. She excels in leadership, communication, and engagement and aspires to become a university lecturer.
Finalists
Thomas Hamlyn-Harris, Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
Randy Mack, Diploma of Leadership and Management
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Winner: Charlotte Ellis
Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
School: St Columban's College (Caboolture)
Training provider: Connect'n'Grow
Employer: Metro North Health – Caboolture Hospital
Year 12 student, Charlotte is completing her school-based traineeship through the 'Deadly Start Education 2 Employment' program. Proudly both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Charlotte excels in her work at the Caboolture Hospital. The hands-on experience guided by supportive trainers, has fuelled her desire for a future double degree in nursing and midwifery. Charlotte also gives her time to extensive volunteer and mentor work and is a First Nations Ambassador at her school.
Finalists
Rehmond Baira, Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management
Matari Turner, Certificate II in Security Operations
School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
Winner: Charlotte Ellis
Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
School: St Columban's College (Caboolture)
Training provider: Connect'n'Grow
Employer: Metro North Health – Caboolture Hospital
Charlotte has excelled in her work at Caboolture Hospital while completing Year 12 at St Columban's College. Starting her school-based traineeship through the 'Deadly Start Education 2 Employment' program, she has developed her understanding of medical terms and nursing roles. She has shown her positive attitude and enjoyed working with colleagues and patients. This experience has fuelled her passion for the health sector and she is aiming to complete a nursing and midwifery double degree.
Finalists
Shaylee Cross, Certificate III in Hospitality
Jaksen Robertson, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Equity Student of the Year
Winner: Jack Lowis
Qualification: Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Training provider: TAFE Queensland
Employer: Sesame Lane Childcare
Jack has shown unwavering commitment to complete his qualification while working at Sesame Lane Childcare. Jack is the only male student and overcame literacy and speech challenges with the support of co-workers and his trainer. He is currently learning Auslan to support a student with impaired hearing. Jack's dream is to own and run a childcare centre catering for children with disabilities, fostering a kind and inclusive space where they can reach their potential.
Finalists
Ricky Gill, Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)
Claudia Hartl, Certificate II in Retail Services
VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year
Winner: Tracy Galaud
Employer: TAFE Queensland
Tracy grew up in the UK and studied social work at the University of Bristol before moving to Australia where she has worked with at-risk youth, homelessness services and agencies that support people with mental health, drug and alcohol problems. Now in her eleventh-year teaching at TAFE Queensland, Tracy is currently delivering the Certificate IV in Mental Health via face to face and virtual classes. She has continuously improved her teaching methods and maintains strong industry connections.
Finalists
Ryan Hunter, TAFE Queensland
Community Training Initiative of the Year
Winner: ECOllaboration
Program name: Sunshine Coast Natural Areas Restoration Project
The not-for-profit group fosters continual improvement through collaborations with training organisations and industry stakeholders, customising training and offering diverse programs in bush regeneration and environmental education. The Yandina-based group achieves high completion and employment rates, empowering the disadvantaged including young people and Indigenous communities. ECOllaboration's commitment is evident through their projects, forum participation, and wrap around support.
Finalists
Angels Community Group – The Hosts with the Most
Deception Bay Neighbourhood Centre – DBNC Orbital Works Program
Large Employer of the Year
Winner: White's IGA
Established in 1993, White's IGA has grown from a team of three to just over 500 people across 6 Sunshine Coast based stores. They employ local people, engage local producers, farmers, growers, providers, suppliers, and services to support and sustain the community. Dynamic and high-performance teams are created through leadership, training and support programs which builds a culture of achievement and reward, feeling valued, respected, and professionally fulfilled.
Finalists
Sesame Lane Childcare
Shadforth
Medium Employer of the Year
Winner: Bridgeman
This Supply Nation-certified, Indigenous company provides leading-edge capability in advanced manufacturing and construction, completing works at correctional facilities. It offers engineering and construction training with programs for apprentices, Indigenous people, women, high school students, past offenders and at-risk young people. Bridgeman is committed to providing leadership, support, opportunity and encouragement to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community.
Finalists
ECOllaboration
Moddex
Small Employer of the Year
Winner: ePlants Trade Nurseries
The Sunshine Coast nursery is committed to extensive training initiatives spanning high school work experience, youth and adult apprenticeships, and upskilling programs. Customised learning meets workforce needs, ensuring ongoing growth and innovation in the industry. Six of the 11 employees have completed or are committed to active training. These efforts have empowered staff, including those with disabilities, fostering a community dedicated to horticulture and environmental stewardship.
Finalists
Oxley Plus Cut and Colour
Sunshine Coast Art and Framing Gallery
Last updated 26 July 2024
