This year we had a record number of nominations for our 1300apprentice awards. And once again our judges were amazed by the high calibre of each nominee, making their deliberation extremely difficult.

Each nominee has displayed a high work ethic, passion for their chosen industry and displays of upstanding community work and involvement to name a few. All of which prove to be great ambassadors for their host employers, vocation education and training and the field they are training in.

Our field officers have proudly supported each nominee through this rewarding process of education and training and give great pleasure in presenting their applications.

Well done to all involved, from our recruitment team to our field officers and especially our dedicated hosts, who, without their encouragement and support the apprentices and trainees would not have the ability to shine.

A very warm thank you to our major sponsor MEGT Apprenticeship Network Provider who have been sponsoring our awards for five years. Also a thank you to Australian College of Commerce & Management who have also given their support to our awards.

OVERALL WINNER – APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

WINNER – APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR – CATEGORY OF HORTICULTURE

TEAGAN JOHNSTON

Apprenticeship: Horticulture – Parks & Gardens Cert III

Teagan has a unique passion for horticulture devoting her own time to the industry and the community to participate and promote horticulture. Teagan has undertaken extra studies during her apprenticeship to extend her knowledge of the industry and has continued studying, enrolling in CIII Conservation Land Management.

Teagan shows a strong community spirit by giving up her own time to assist those in need. Additionally, together with her host employer, Teagan participates in community based events such as Floriade and assisting horticulture and floristry schools.

Teagan was also a finalist in the LNA NSW Apprentice of the Year awards. Teagan should be very proud of what she has accomplished and what she is doing for vocational education, her community and her host employer.

RUNNER UP – APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

WINNER – APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR – CATEGORY OF ELECTROTECHNOLOGY

MITCHELL CLARSON

Apprenticeship: Electrotechnology Electrician Cert III

Our judges were inspired by Mitchell and his commitment to excelling in his chosen trade. Mitchell is now a fully qualified Electrician and continues to undertake study, completing a Solar Power course and several other industry licences. Mitchell consistently received high results throughout his TAFE course while traveling long distances to work every day. 

In his list of achievements during his apprenticeship he was a special mention for the 1300apprentice Rising the bar award and Outstanding Achievement awards for Electrotechnology.  

Mitchell also demonstrates well rounded kindness and selflessness by helping his friends who have a farm in his spare time. He is well respected by his peers and his host employer and now he uses his leadership skills to mentor apprentices and run his own jobs.

OVERALL WINNER – TRAINEE OF THE YEAR

WINNER – TRAINEE OF THE YEAR – CATEGORY OF WAREHOUSING

ZACHERY PEACOCK

Traineeship: Warehousing Operations Cert III

Zachery has found his path. After completing his traineeship, Zachery knew this was the career path for him and has enrolled in a Diploma of Logistics to further his career. His host employer is very pleased to have someone so proficient in the many functions of the company.

He shows passion and a genuine want for the company to succeed. Currently appointed warehouse supervisor of a busy logistics company, Zachery is also completing a Diploma in Logistics and other globally recognized courses.

It’s great to see that Zachery values vocational education and has used the traineeship pathway to expand his advancement in the industry.

RUNNER UP – TRAINEE OF THE YEAR

WINNER – TRAINEE OF THE YEAR – CATEGORY OF BUSINESS

YASMIN AYOUB

Traineeship: Business Administration Cert III

Yasmin is an outstanding young woman who is petitioning human rights and extensively works with her community, where she is involved in a number of projects. Yasmin, a refugee who has also had to learn English, is a role model and voice for others who may have experienced hardship. She has the determination to make a difference and has carefully planned the best way to achieve this.

As a result Yasmin chose to complete a traineeship in Business Administration rather than continue through university to get a better understanding and hands on learning of a business environment.  She excelled in her work as a customer support officer and has become an asset to her team. Yasmin will return to University to further her study.

OVERALL WINNER – AUSTRALIAN SCHOOL-BASED TRAINEE OF THE YEAR CERTIFICATE III

BRITNEY

Britney began her traineeship in certificate III Business to build on her already impressive list of qualifications she was undertaking while at school. She continues to balance her time to volunteer in her community while working part time and continuing her studies at school at a high level. Britney is a very self-motivated young lady and a great ambassador for vocational training.

OVERALL WINNER – SCHOOL-BASED TRAINEE OF THE YEAR CERTIFICATE II

JEMASIN JOYCE

After recently winning the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year award for New South Wales, Jemasin is now on her way to the Australian Training Awards as a finalist for the same category. It’s her determination and strong will that has seen her achieve so much already.

At school Jemasin is an ambassador of education and employment, mentoring other Aboriginal students and is an active organizer for Immersion days, NAIDOC week and Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience events. All this while juggling school, work, representative sport, study and family life. Jemasin is a great advocate on many levels. Good luck in the Australian National Finals.

RUNNER UP – SCHOOL-BASED TRAINEE OF THE YEAR CERTIFICATE II

CHLOE CROKER

Chloe has many lists of achievements already at such a young age and thrives on her ability to multitask. In fact this asset is, by far one of her stand out qualities and something she has had to learn very early.

Chloe has been involved in many events including working with an indigenous student group who created and deliver their own acknowledgement of country; Chloe has exceled in her workplace, study for school as well as working other part time jobs. Having a lot more responsibility than many her age, she has also had the maturity to prioritize her work load to continue what is most important to her and her future goals.

SPECIAL MENTION – SCHOOL-BASED TRAINEE OF THE YEAR CERTIFICATE II

CONNOR BUGEJA

Connor has proven to be a valuable asset to his host. He has a strong interest in the work he is doing and displays maturity beyond his years. He is often referred to as a “super star” from his supervisors and work colleagues, he continually impresses with his ability to perform tasks at a high level while maintaining a professional and friendly manner to internal and external customers. Connor is laying great foundations for his future.

WINNER – APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR – CATEGORY OF BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION

NOAH HAYWARD

Apprenticeship: Carpentry Certificate III

Throughout his apprenticeship, Noah has taken every opportunity to shine and show that he is capable of working independently and at the level of a tradesperson. Noah’s host employer is thrilled with his well-rounded knowledge in the building and construction industry and says he is capable of performing duties not normally expected by someone of his age, reflected recently when his manager was away on leave – Noah took on the running of the job.

Noah takes every opportunity to learn and improve his skills and throughout his apprenticeship, he has approached his role in a very mature and responsible way and has secured his future in this industry.

RUNNER UP – APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR – CATEGORY OF ELECTROTECHNOLOGY

MATTHEW OLLERTON

Apprenticeship: Electrotechnology Certificate III

Matthew’s work ethic is advanced for his level. Actively supporting other apprentice’s, Matthew is now running his own jobs and is demonstrating leadership skills far beyond expectations.
Well done Matthew. 

WINNER – APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR – CATEGORY OF METALS

FLAVIO RAGUSA

Apprenticeship: Engineering – Mechanical Cert III

Flavio’s story started at University but he soon realized the hands on learning obtained through an apprenticeship was a better and more interesting way of gaining skills and employment in the engineering industry. Flavio took that opportunity to develop his knowledge through commitment to his TAFE course as well as extra training to increase his skills base. Early on Flavio was given the opportunity to oversee control over the maintenance program with his employer. He continues to impress with his commitment to Engineering.

WINNER – APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR – CATEGORY OF AUTOMOTIVE – HEAVY VEHICLE

ANDREW HOLMAN

Apprenticeship: Mobile Plant Technology Certificate III

Andrew initially commenced and completed an apprenticeship as a Heavy Vehicle mechanic. Having successfully completed this, Andrew decided to expand his skill set and took the opportunity to undertake and complete a dual trade. He is now qualified in both Heavy Vehicle mechanic and Mobile Plant mechanic and early completed these. Andrew took a very mature approach to both of his apprenticeships, completing TAFE with high marks and rarely missing a day of work.

WINNER – APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR – CATEGORY OF AUTOMOTIVE – LIGHT VEHICLE

AIDEN MEADE

Apprenticeship: Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III

Aiden has followed his dream in becoming an automotive mechanic. His commitment to his host and his trade is outstanding and followed up his apprenticeship in Light Vehicle mechanic with a CIII in Automotive Electrical Technology.

Aiden travels great distances to attend work and his reliability and attendance illustrates his dedication to his career and to his host employers business. He is always willing to take on extra responsibilities and will continue to build his skill set and is happily working with his host employer as a dual qualified tradesman.

ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

OVERALL WINNER – 3RD YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
WINNER – 3RD YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY OF ENGINEERING

WILLIAM VLAHOPOL

Apprenticeship: Engineering – Mechanical trade Certificate III

William shows a strong commitment to his trade and has been given the huge responsibility of looking after a major part of his host employers business which sees him instructing and inspecting the work completed. While undertaking his TAFE studies for his apprenticeship, he is also attending night classes to complete an additional welding course. William is on his way to an interesting and secure future.

SPECIAL MENTION – 3RD YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
WINNER – 3RD YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY OF HORTICULTURE

JESSICA BEZZINA

Apprenticeship: Horticulture – Parks and Gardens Certificate III

Jessica is well advanced in her apprenticeship. She has been proactive in her TAFE studies and accelerated her course to focus on her on the job skills. Jessica was promoted to acting team leader early in her apprenticeship along with a company vehicle.

Jessica shows commitment by always meeting deadlines, being respectful and an excellent representative of her host employer. As a woman in a non-traditional trade, she is a great example for women looking to learn through VET.

WINNER – 3RD YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY OF BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION

BRODIE ANDERS

Apprenticeship: Carpentry Certificate III

Brodie commenced his apprenticeship with a fantastic attitude. He continued over the course of his apprenticeship to impress his host employer with his commitment, reliability and ability to work under pressure.

Brodie travelled a number of hours each day to complete his apprenticeship. Never missing one day of TAFE his commitment extends to his studies, striving to learn and look for ways to increase his knowledge.

OVERALL WINNER – 2nd YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
WINNER – 2ND YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY HORTICULTURE

JAMIE-LEE CRAWFORD

Apprenticeship: Horticulture – Parks and Gardens Certificate III

Jamie-Lee is the first to offer assistance to new team members and always comes to work with a can-do-attitude. Being a young female in a non-traditional trade she has demonstrated that gender is no boundary.

Receiving glowing recommendations from her TAFE teachers and her supervisors Jamie-Lee is very deserving for this recognition.

OVERALL WINNER – 2nd YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
WINNER – 2ND YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY ELECTROTECHNOLOGY

KOSMAS CHRONAKIS

Apprenticeship: Electrotechnology – Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Certificate III

Kosmas has constantly exceeded expectations and as his host employer will remark is setting the benchmark for future apprentices. His TAFE teacher regards him as one of the best first years he has seen in a long time.

Kosmas was recently chosen to compete in World Skills Competition for the Sydney Regional area. We wish him all the best as he waits the results.

WINNER – 2ND YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY TELECOMMUNICATIONS

ISOBEL DEMOL

Apprenticeship: Telecommunications Technology Certificate III

Telecommunications is a new exciting industry and an exciting career path with many opportunities. Isobel has taken on her apprenticeship with a positive attitude and commitment to her host employer and her chosen trade. Being a role model for women in non-traditional trades she continually strives to improve her skills in a predominantly male trade.

WINNER – 2ND YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY ENGINEERING – HEAVY FABRICATION

HULISI (GREG) GUNES

Apprenticeship: Engineering – Fabrication trade III

Greg has consistently shown an eagerness and positive attitude to his work. Through participation in complex jobs, he is gaining more responsibility and enjoying the challenge. In his time as an apprentice Greg has enrolled in additional courses for structural welding. This skills base makes him a great asset to his employer.

SPECIAL MENTION – 2ND YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY ENGINEERING – HEAVY FABRICATION

SAMUEL SUTTON

Apprenticeship: Engineering – Fabrication trade III

Employed as a boilermaker, Samuel is excelling in his apprenticeship and progressing above his expected level. His understanding and the quality of his work is well above that expected and is already a valued member of the team.

WINNER – 2ND YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY ENGINEERING – LIGHT FABRICATION

PETER HARDIE

Apprenticeship: Engineering – Fabrication trade III

Peter is always enthusiastic to assist where required and already has the ability to work independently on a variety of jobs. His TAFE results show consistently high marks and is advanced in his training. He ensures a safe workplace and always takes care and sets a precedent in the workshop.

WINNER – 2ND YEAR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – CATEGORY ENGINEERING – MECHANICAL

JOSHUA MCCUE

Apprenticeship: Engineering – Mechanical trade III

Joshua has shown his commitment through not only his TAFE course, but undertaking a number of further courses in his spare time. Dedicated and career driven are just a few words that could describe him. He has a passion for his trade and well on the way to gaining all the skills to establish a solid career path.

OUTSTANDING SAFE WORK PRACTICES AWARD

JACK DONOVAN

Apprenticeship: Engineering – Mechanical trade III

At 1300apprentice, our first priority is to ensure our apprentices and trainees arrive home at the end of the day, safe and uninjured. Working safely should always be commended, however, realizing a need and being proactive by designing and building a process to improve safety within the workplace should be celebrated and praised.

Jack created a safe work method to minimise manual handling which has been established for all employees in his workshop. Here is someone who thinks outside the box and shows initiative.
Well done Jack!