Congratulations to the state winners of the 2025 Queensland Training Awards.
The state final was held on Saturday 13 September 2025 at Plaza Ballroom, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
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
Kayla Benton, Certificate III in Hairdressing, North Coast
Stephen Cunningham, Certificate III in Electric Supply Industry - Distribution Overhead, North Queensland
Jett Davis, Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade, South East
Adam Dittman, Certificate III in Engineering – Fixed and Mobile Plant Mechanic, Central Queensland
Brylie Jones, Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade, Darling Downs South West
Christopher Reppel, Certificate III in Carpentry, Tropical North Queensland
Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year
Winner: Kayla Gagai
Qualification: Certificate IV in Youth Work
Training provider: TAFE Queensland
Employer: Vocational Partnership Groups
Kayla completed her youth work qualification while supporting young people through programs like Respect Me and Ready for Work. As an integral part of the Vocational Partnership Groups' First Nations Leadership Team, Kayla organises cultural events and delivers cultural awareness training. Dedicated to empowering young people and advocating for their needs, Kayla actively participates in community forums, inspiring others with her leadership and passion for positive change.
Finalists
Monika Bastowska, Certificate III in Individual Support, Metropolitan
Chloe Hutchinson, Certificate III in Business, Central Queensland
Lillianne Lenoy, Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance, North Queensland
Gerhard Mortimer, Certificate III in Business, Darling Downs South West
Thomas Unsworth, Certificate III in Business, South East
Felicity Wadsworth, Certificate III in Civil Construction (Road Construction and Maintenance), North Coast
Vocational Student of the Year
Winner: Cameron Flack
Qualification: Diploma of Work Health and Safety
Training provider: ASTRA Group Services
Employer: Global Engineering and Construction
Cameron transitioned from hospitality to Oil and Gas, building strong skills in work health and safety. As a Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Advisor, he mentors colleagues and leads psychosocial health initiatives. His dedication to fostering workplace safety and continuous learning demonstrates resilience and leadership. Cameron’s commitment to professional growth and culture change makes him an inspiring advocate for vocational education and safety awareness.
Finalists
Engy Abdalla Gamar, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, Metropolitan
Kylie Johnston, Certificate III in Horticulture, Central Queensland
Tracey MacDonald, Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs / Diploma of Mental Health, North Coast
Ronelle Sheehan, Diploma of Nursing, North Queensland
Brett Snodgrass, Certificate III in Rural Operations, Tropical North Queensland
Ari Travis, Certificate IV in Youth Work, South East
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Winner: Dion Sands
Qualification: Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management
Training provider: TAFE Queensland
Employer: Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji Peoples Prescribed Body Corporate (GMYPPBC) Aboriginal Corporation
Focused on becoming an environmental leader, Dion completed a Certificate II in Conversation Land Management. A proud Gunggandji man, Dion's work with GMYPPBC and participation in national conferences has equipped him with valuable skills, helping him towards his future-focused goal to manage GMYPPBC, inspire emerging leaders and continue advocating for the environment—all while giving back to his community.
Finalists
Levi AhSee, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, North Coast
Blake Foreshew, Diploma of Project Management, South East
Lilliane Lenoy, Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance, North Queensland
Maddison Petrie, Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician / Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control, Central Queensland
Jackson Vitale, Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation / Certificate III in Business / Certificate II in Electrotechnology, Metropolitan
Lilly White, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, Darling Downs South West
School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
Winner: Hamish Grenrich
Qualification: Certificate III in Agriculture
Training provider: Rural Training Australia
Employer: AC Genrich (Family Farm)
School: Downlands College
Hamish, a trainee from Downlands College, is pursuing his qualification through Rural Training Australia. Working on his family farm, he combines hands-on experience in livestock and cropping with formal education. His commitment to sustainable agriculture and leadership in the field, positions him to continue his family's legacy and inspire others to explore careers in this vital industry.
Finalists
Mira Bannerman, Certificate III in Hairdressing, Tropical North Queensland
Jasmine Cook, Certificate II in Animal Care, Central Queensland
Baylee Gray, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, North Queensland
Amy McCann, Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance, Metropolitan
Joel McLachlan, Certificate III in Carpentry, North Coast
Zachariah Smart, Certificate III in Business, South East
Equity Student of the Year
Winner: Therese Stanton
Qualification: Certificate III in Sterilisation Services
Training provider: TAFE Queensland
Employer: Various
After a diverse career spanning roles as a jockey, nurse and teacher's aide, Therese suffered a life-altering stroke in 2014 leaving her with speech and mobility challenges. Determined to return to healthcare, last year she completed a Certificate III in Sterilisation Services to leverage her existing knowledge and experience. She was recently awarded TAFE Queensland Gold Coast Health Student of the Year, a testament to her resilience, passion and purpose.
Finalists
Engy Abdalla Gamar, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, Metropolitan
Adam Breadon, Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs / Diploma of Mental Health, Tropical North Queensland
Biannca Hoolihan, Certificate II in Rail Infrastructure, North Queensland
Jodie Mackey, Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability), North Coast
Gerhard Mortimer, Certificate III in Business, Darling Downs South West
Sharee Pryce, Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations, Central Queensland
VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year
Winner: Andrew Abbas
Employer: CQUniversity Australia
Andrew brings 20 years of experience as a VET educator, leading apprenticeship programs and VET in Schools courses at CQUniversity's Emerald Campus. He mentors students from diverse backgrounds and implements innovative teaching methods. Andrew’s contributions to an apprentice program in the resources sector and regional partnerships promote quality education and community engagement across the VET sector.
Finalists
Shaun Andrews-Close, CTA Training Specialists, North Coast
Jake Buckingham, City Wide Building and Training Services, South East
Colbey Clarence, Training Unlimited, Darling Downs South West
Nigel Gorman, Aussie Painters Network, Metropolitan
Paul Pardini, TAFE Queensland, Tropical North Queensland
Brian Siebert, TAFE Queensland, North Queensland
Large Training Provider of the Year
Winner: CQUniversity Australia
As Queensland’s only dual-sector university, CQUniversity offers over 250 programs from certificates to postgraduate degrees. With a focus on regional workforce development, it has invested over $75 million in VET infrastructure for sectors like mining and renewables. Its commitment to accessibility, innovation and industry ties ensures students graduate with practical skills and career-ready qualifications, as well as easy transitions into further study opportunities
Finalists
Aviation Australia
CTA Training Specialists
Small Training Provider of the Year
Winner: Hastings Deering (Australia)
With over 90 years of industry heritage, Hastings Deering delivers tailored VET solutions in mobile plant technology. Combining hands-on learning with tools like virtual and augmented reality, it equips students with cutting-edge skills reflective of current and future industry standards. . Through flexible delivery, mentoring and partnerships, Hastings Deering supports diverse learners and empowers graduates to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
Finalists
eInstitute
St James College
Community Training Initiative of the Year
Winner: Base Services
Program: Base Services Traineeship
Base Services has been supporting people experiencing or at risk of homelessness since 1993. Their Second Shot traineeship supports disadvantaged individuals by providing training in hospitality. Participants complete a Certificate I in Hospitality and gain essential life skills through wraparound support, including mentoring and job readiness workshops. The program empowers participants to overcome challenges, rebuild independence, and pursue sustainable careers.
Finalists
Community Careers, Community Solutions, Central Queensland
Community Foundation Skills, Townsville Multicultural Support Group, North Queensland
In-Tent for Change, Youth Enterprise Trust, South East
Making Tracks Security Program, Five Bridges, North Coast
Skills2Lead, Schools to Jobs and Aspire programs, Cape York Partnership, Tropical North Queensland
SunnyFutures Ready for Work, SunnyFutures (Sunnybank State High School P&C), Metropolitan
Large Employer of the Year
Winner: The Ville Precinct—The Ville Resort–Casino, Ardo Hotel and Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre
For nearly 40 years, The Ville Precinct has been a cornerstone of North Queensland's hospitality sector, employing 900+ staff. Training is key to its success, with 54 employees in certified programs in the last year. Initiatives include school-based traineeships, cookery apprenticeships and a Leadership Excellence Program that has had 26 graduates, nine receiving promotions. Strong community and training partnerships drive workforce development and set the standard for industry excellence.
Finalists
Glencore Coal Assets Australia, Central Queensland
Gold Coast Health, South East
Hastings Deering (Australia), Metropolitan
MSF Sugar Pty Ltd, Tropical North Queensland
Russell Mineral Equipment, Darling Downs South West
Sesame Lane, North Coast
Medium Employer of the Year
Winner: Murroona Gardens
Murroona Gardens, an aged care provider, invests in workforce development through hands-on training in partnership with Blue Stone Medical and Abbot Point Bulk Coal. With 40% of staff engaged in training, the company delivers qualifications like Certificate III in Individual Support and dementia care. The commitment Murroona Gardens has to employee development enhances resident care and strengthens workforce retention, ensuring excellence in aged care.
Finalists
Brisbane Insulation, Metropolitan
Eckersley Print Group, North Coast
Global Engineering & Construction, Darling Downs South West
Tableland Veterinary Service, Tropical North Queensland
Twin Rivers Centre, South East
V.A.J. Byrne & Co. Lawyers, Central Queensland
Small Employer of the Year
Winner: Intuition The Art of Hair
Intuition The Art of Hair transforms hairdressing careers with apprenticeships, leadership and mentorship programs. Since 2011, the salon has grown to 17 professionals. Partnering with MIG Training, they offer top-tier training within an inclusive culture that empowers staff. Their focus on innovation and skills development cements their reputation as a leader in the industry.
Finalists
Becky B Hair, North Coast
Blondee, Metropolitan
GMH Solutions, Tropical North Queensland
Mandana, Darling Downs South West
NCHE Carpentry and Construction, South East
R.H.D. Classic Supplies & Services, North Queensland
Premier's Industry Collaboration Award
Winner: Energy Queensland Cadetship Program
Energy Queensland and TAFE Queensland
Energy Queensland and TAFE Queensland partnered to address regional workforce shortages through a school-based cadetship in electrotechnology. Launched as a pilot in 2024 with 18 cadets, the program expanded in 2025 to 380 applicants, with 50 students placed across 50 regional depots. Blending online learning, hands-on training and depot experience, the program prepares students for careers as Distribution Linespersons and Electrical Fitter Mechanics with Energy Queensland. It fosters local talent, strengthens communities and builds a skilled workforce for Queensland’s energy future.
Finalists
Aquaculture and Agriculture Tech Skills Hub, Aquaculture and Agriculture Tech Skills Hub and TAFE Queensland
The PeakCare Talent Centre Program, PeakCare Queensland, Workforce Connect, Look Now Training and IFYS Ltd
Last updated 13 September 2025
