Congratulations to South East's 2024 regional winners and finalists.
The regional final was held on 19 July 2024 at the Gold Coast Turf Club, Bundall.
Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Chloe Halliwell
Qualification: Certificate III in Painting and Decorating
Training provider: Gimbal Construction
Group training organisation: OSMAC Group Training
Host employer: Finesse Painting
At the age of 19 Chloe started an apprenticeship with Gimbal Construction after discovering the peace and creativity of painting. Overcoming initial challenges with the theory component, Chloe found support to accommodate her ADHD diagnosis and gained extensive experience on various job sites. Chloe now guides other apprentices, excels in team settings, and advocates for women in trades. Chloe aspires to obtain a QBCC licence, and eventually start her own business.
Finalists
Robert Henderson, Certificate III in Polymer Processing (Composites)
Travis Wellington, Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade
Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year
Winner: Aimee Wallace
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: First Choice College
Employer: City of Gold Coast
At 39, Aimee changed career paths and pursued a Certificate III in Business. Previously balancing a home-based business, part-time work and raising 3 sons, Aimee has excelled in her traineeship with the City of Gold Coast. Aimee has made innovative workplace contributions and taken on leadership roles with the council, including to support Operation Clean Up activities. Aimee displays a commitment to community involvement utilising her communication skills and initiative.
Finalists
Travis Rex, Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking)
Myka White Watts, Certificate III in Hospitality
Vocational Student of the Year
Winner: Madison Collins
Qualification: Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation
Training provider: Career Employment Australia
Employer: Career Employment Australia
Madison's interest in mechanical engineering has grown from being the child of a mechanic to wanting to be part of growing the number of women in the sector. She enjoyed getting her hands dirty as part of her training and showed her drive and resilience, while maintaining high academic results at Southport State High School. She has taken up a scholarship to study a Certificate II in Aircraft Engineering, which has raised her interest in engineering higher.
Finalists
Melinda Browne, Certificate III in Individual Support
Brendan Speed, Diploma of Events Management
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Winner: Shaylee Borg
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: Aurora Training Institute
Employer: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
School: Palm Beach Currumbin State High School
In her first job at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Shaylee rotated through the cafe, gift store, and ticket booths, learning customer service, networking skills, and resilience. She juggled her training with responsibilities as Prefect, sports house and Indigenous captain at Palm Beach Currumbin State High School. Shaylee actively engaged with her Bundjalung heritage, participating in dance and academic events, and inspiring others through her achievements and leadership.
Finalists
Nicholas Austin, Certificate III in Engineering – Fixed and Mobile Plant Mechanic
Eli Gilsenan, Certificate II in Marine Habitat Conservation and Restoration
School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
Winner: Austin Anthony
Qualification: Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
School: Tamborine Mountain State High School
Training provider: Aurora Training Institute
Employer: Gallery Café Mt Tamborine
Austin's school-based apprenticeship in commercial cookery has given him experience in diverse kitchens from sushi to fine dining, honed his culinary skills and deepened his theoretical and industry knowledge. He is also studying Diplomas of Business and Music Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. He has a lead role in the school musical among other responsibilities. He displays a strong work ethic and has a goal to open a family food truck business.
Finalists
Lexi Devine, Certificate III in Business
Charlize Steele, Certificate III in Information Technology
Equity Student of the Year
Winner: Yasser Mubekwa
Qualification: Diploma of Community Services
Training provider: TAFE Queensland
Yasser is one of 25 children who escaped civil war via a Ugandan refugee camp before arriving in Logan. While learning English, Yasser excelled at high school, and earned a Diploma of Community Services, despite barriers including financial constraints. Now with experience at PCYC, Twin Rivers Church, and Slacks Creek Mosque, Yasser is completing a business traineeship. He is driven by his challenging past and desire to give back and actively mentors others and inspires his community.
Finalists
Amran Husseein Ali, Certificate III in Hospitality
Robert McHarg, Certificate III in Community Services
VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year
Winner: Steven Andrews
Employer: Envirotech Education
As a lecturer and environmental advocate, Steven is committed to teaching marine science. He has managed multiple vocational education programs that benefit student learning and the environment. He develops industry partnerships and connects with Indigenous communities to organise hands-on projects for students including through the Healing Sea Country program. He contributes to adaptive curriculums that cater to diverse learner needs and listens to feedback to support better outcomes.
Finalists
Nixon Brass, Ampd Academy
Bruna Sefrin, TAFE Queensland
Community Training Initiative of the Year
Winner: Carinity Fassifern Community Centre and Horizon 2
Program name: Carinity Fassifern Community Employment Pathways Program
Carinity provides around 40 services to 16,000 clients every year, across education, training, exercise, and support. The Fassifern centre in Boonah delivers the Pathways to Community Employment Program, under the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative. It develops the local workforce, focused on aged and disability services. Strong partnerships with local businesses and organisations enhances community development and provided extensive support and training for disadvantaged residents.
Finalists
Twin Rivers Centre – Back on Your Feet
Youth Enterprise Trust, Woodstock Farm – In-Tent for Change Prevention Program
Large Employer of the Year
Winner: Riviera Australia
The country's largest luxury motor yacht builder employs over 800 craftspeople at Coomera and offers 140 specialised apprenticeships via its Riviera Academy of Excellence. Certificates from marine craft construction through to upholstery, provide hands-on learning integrated with real-world production. Riviera's Propel Program drives its reputation for quality training and contributes to a 90% employee retention rate, numerous awards and career advancement opportunities for all staff.
Finalists
City Venue Management
Golden Cockerel
Medium Employer of the Year
Winner: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
With a diverse workforce of employees and volunteers, the not-for-profit organisation has developed a robust training culture to enhance professional development, promote equity and develop service excellence. The sanctuary supports VET qualifications related to tourism, hospitality, horticulture, vet sciences, wildlife, and more. It offers training via in-house Emerging Leaders, Rising Stars, First Nations, and Wings of Success Service Excellence Programs that promote life-long learning.
Finalists
Definitive Electrical Services
ONGC Systems
Small Employer of the Year
Winner: Halogen Pools
This award-winning company, based in Burleigh Heads, is committed to training excellence. Its school-based business traineeships include customised units to support people aspiring to work as a technician or in the shop. Existing employees can take on mature-age traineeships to broaden their skills and the online 'Halogen Lab' fosters continuous learning. Over 80% of the team has completed the traineeship, supporting productivity, client satisfaction and business success.
Finalists
ARB Capalaba
Skye Dental
Last updated 1 August 2024
