Central Queensland regional final

For outstanding achievement in VET by a Queensland business with 99 or fewer full-time equivalent employees.

Finalists

Byrne Lawyers	Darrin Price Constructions	M Hair & Co
With a legacy spanning almost a century, Byrne Lawyers has built a culture of continuous professional development through tailored training pathways for solicitors and support staff. Comprehensive in-house learning resources, self-paced programs and dedicated trainers support career progression across multiple legal disciplines. By combining innovative training systems with ongoing industry engagement, Byrne Lawyers is strengthening legal capability across regional Queensland.	Darrin Price Constructions has embedded training and skills development into every stage of its operations, creating opportunities for emerging tradespeople to build successful careers in construction. Through structured apprenticeships, mentoring and partnerships with training providers, the business combines practical on-site experience with nationally recognised qualifications. A long-standing commitment to developing future builders continues to strengthen the local construction workforce.	Education is at the heart of M Hair & Co's success. With apprentices learning across multiple salon locations, the business has developed a structured training model that blends technical excellence, leadership development and career progression. By creating clear pathways for growth, M Hair & Co continues to cultivate confident, highly skilled hairdressers ready to thrive in the industry.

For outstanding achievement in VET by a Queensland business with 100 or more full-time equivalent employees.

Sponsor

Mas National, part of the IntoWork Group, has delivered employment and apprenticeship support services across Australia for over 25 years. As a trusted Apprentice Connect Provider, Mas partners with stakeholders nationwide to facilitate sign-ups, mentoring, and workforce participation, offering personalised support to job seekers, employers, businesses, and community organisations.

Finalists

Mackay Regional Council	Newlands - Glencore	Queensland Alumina Limited
As one of the region's largest employers, Mackay Regional Council provides diverse career pathways across engineering, construction, environmental services, administration and community services. Employees have access to apprenticeships, traineeships, leadership programs and ongoing professional development opportunities that support long-term career growth. Through its commitment to building local capability, Mackay Regional Council continues to strengthen the Central Queensland workforce.	Newlands - Glencore is investing in the future of Queensland's resources sector through a strong focus on skills development and workforce capability. Employees gain access to specialised training, operational experience and leadership opportunities within a complex mining environment. By developing highly skilled professionals, Newlands - Glencore is helping ensure the sustainability and success of the industry across Central Queensland.	Queensland Alumina Limited has built a culture where continuous learning supports both operational excellence and employee success. Training programs span technical, trade and leadership disciplines, ensuring employees are equipped to meet the evolving demands of advanced manufacturing and processing industries. This commitment to capability development has made workforce training a key part of the organisation's long-standing success in Central Queensland.

For outstanding assistance to Queenslanders to gain the skills, experience and VET qualifications required to enter and stay in the workplace, by a community-based not-for-profit organisation.

Finalists

Apprentices and Trainees Queensland Program: Ignite Your Opportunities	Community Solutions Program: Community Careers	Gladstone Mindcare Program: Employment Readiness and Wellbeing Program
Ignite Your Opportunities helps participants explore career options, build workplace skills and connect with training and employment pathways across Central Queensland. Through personalised guidance, practical learning experiences and strong industry partnerships, the program equips individuals with the confidence and capability to pursue meaningful careers while helping address local workforce needs.	The Community Careers program creates opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment to develop job-ready skills and industry connections. Combining tailored support with practical training experiences, Community Solutions helps participants build confidence, strengthen employability and successfully transition into further education, training and employment.	Recognising the important connection between wellbeing and employment success, the Employment Readiness and Wellbeing Program supports participants to overcome personal and vocational barriers. Through confidence building, personal development and workforce preparation, Gladstone Mindcare helps individuals develop the skills and resilience needed to pursue sustainable employment outcomes.

For outstanding achievement by a teacher or trainer providing nationally recognised training to students at, or in partnership with, a training provider.

Finalists

Colin Crichton MTA Institute	Leonie Keating CQUniversity	Natalie Virtue Sarina State High School
Colin has spent his entire working life in the automotive industry, and for the past four years has trained more than 70 apprentices across a region stretching from St Lawrence to Hamilton Island. Named MTA Institute Trainer of the Year in 2025, Colin has independently delivered Auto Ready programs in Dysart and Townsville, travelled to Lockhart River for remote community training, and is heading to Papua New Guinea to deliver air conditioning training for a mining company. Geography, for Colin, is no barrier.	With more than 25 years in language, literacy and digital literacy education, Leonie makes sure no student falls behind because of what they can't yet read, write or navigate. Working with TAFE students from Certificate I to IV, Leonie has shaped rural and remote study hubs from Woorabinda to Longreach, presented at the National VET Conference on best-practice foundation skills, and is currently researching whether digital literacy assessments reflect what learners need to succeed. The answer, when she finds it, will change how educators teach.	Natalie runs one of the few remaining regional school-based Early Childhood programs in Queensland entirely on her own — managing multiple qualifications, 13 placement sites and compliance across several RTOs simultaneously. What she has built over seven years at Sarina State High School is something industry partners keep coming back to: graduates who arrive at placement already confident, practically capable and ready to work with real children. Nearly 60% of Natalie's Year 12 students move into employment or further study in early childhood.

For outstanding achievement in overcoming a significant barrier or disadvantage to effectively participate in VET.

Finalists

Aaron Owens Qualification: Certificate III in Animal Care Services Registered Training Organisation: CQUniversity Australia Employer: Rockhampton Zoo / Cooberrie Park / Yeppoon Boarding Kennels	Kieran Weaver Qualification: Certificate III in Hospitality Registered Training Organisation: Training Unlimited Pty Ltd Employer: Hungry Jacks	Shannyn Kay Bonerath Qualification: Diploma of Beauty Therapy (Relaxation Massage) Registered Training Organisation: CQUniversity Australia Employer: Regional Health & Mobility
Coming from a non-mainstream schooling background with limited exposure to further education pathways, Aaron took a determined step into vocational training driven by a lifelong love of animals. Completing a Certificate III in Animal Care Services across three diverse placement environments, Aaron built practical skills, workplace confidence and a clear sense of direction. With strong support from teachers and supervisors who recognised his strengths, Aaron is now focused on building a long-term career contributing meaningfully to animal welfare.	Completing a Certificate III in Hospitality while managing health challenges and personal commitments, Kieran worked his way from crew member to store manager at Yeppoon Hungry Jack's by age 20. Holding a Food Safety Certificate and three completed qualifications, Kieran brings determination and a genuine enthusiasm for learning. Passionate about showing others that no barrier is too great, Kieran describes an approach to training simply as ‘obsession and ambition’ — and the results speak for themselves.	Motivated by years of personal health challenges and a desire to help others navigate similar experiences, Shannyn completed a Diploma of Beauty Therapy while working two jobs, raising two young sons and managing ongoing health commitments. Shannyn brought exceptional resilience and empathy to every aspect of the course. Now working full-time in a senior role, her goal is to create a welcoming, supportive space for clients living with visible and invisible health conditions.

For outstanding achievement by a Queensland school-based apprentice or trainee.

Finalists

Lachlan Thompson Qualification: Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration School: Holy Spirit College Registered Training Organisation: Axial Training Employer: Bauer Electrical Mackay	Leighton Tucker Qualification: Certificate III in Carpentry School: Marist College Emerald Registered Training Organisation: Blue Dog Training Employer: Mattingley Renovations	Ly Nguyen Qualification: Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care School: Emmaus College Rockhampton Registered Training Organisation: KKTC Education Employer: Kallahra Childcare Norman Gardens
Lachlan Thompson arrived at Year 11 with a plan — and executed it. Juggling 4 certificate courses alongside a school-based apprenticeship in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Lachlan was elected School Captain of Holy Spirit College in 2026, becoming the first school leader at the college to hold an active apprenticeship. A proud Tagalaka man, Lachlan brings curiosity, self-discipline and a genuine love of problem-solving to everything from job sites to Anzac Day commemorations.	Leighton Tucker didn't wait opportunity to find him — he organised it himself with Mattingley Renovations during school holidays. He knew carpentry was for him within his first week and now works across various sites in the Emerald region and hasn't looked back. He bought his own ute and restored a toolbox to bring to site. Leighton was also named Junior Sportsman of the Year at the Emerald Australia Day ceremony in 2026. His trainer calls him an inspiration for anyone considering a trade.	At just 16 years old, Ly Nguyen is completing a School based Traineeship in Early Childhood Education and Care while also studying a Certificate III in Fitness. After discovering a passion for working with children, Ly attends Kallahra Childcare every Tuesday bringing genuine enthusiasm, building strong connections and learning from a supportive and diverse team of colleagues. Patient, empathetic and quietly determined, Ly is creating a future that reflects her dedication, values and commitment to helping others.

For outstanding achievement by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student within the Queensland VET sector.

Sponsor

Originally founded in Rockhampton in 1967and became a University in 1992. Today, it supports  more than 30,000 students studying online and on campus across Australia. CQUniversity is Australia's most inclusive university with some of the highest ratios of students from disadvantaged, mature age, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and first-in-family backgrounds. It is Queensland's only dual sector university and is also a leader in distance and online education.

Finalists

Aaliyah Morseu-Stagg Qualification: Certificate III in Hairdressing Registered Training Organisation: LaShar College of Beaute and Hair Employer: My Place Hair and Beauty	Shae Ridgeway Qualification: Certificate III in Events  Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Mackay Regional Council	Taylib Glover Qualification: Certificate III in Business Registered Training Organisation: Australian Trade Training College Employer: MRAEL, Emerald
Aaliyah's journey began with a warm welcome and shared belief in her potential. Since then, she has embraced every opportunity to learn, grow and excel. Aaliyah has built technical expertise across colouring, cutting and client care while growing into a trusted team member who is now pursuing a management pathway. A proud First Nations woman and mother, Aaliyah also plays football for her Indigenous team and was selected as a judge at Rocky Nats — contributing to community and culture as much as her trade pathway.	Shae Ridgeway applied for a business traineeship with Mackay Regional Council — and was invited to interview with the Events team too. That pivot became a career. A proud Aboriginal and South Sea Islander person from Yuwi Country, Shae contributed to the Mackay Festival of Arts and Global Grooves, earned an Indigenous Economic Development Professional Scholarship, and now sits on the Programming Steering Committee for the National Economic Development Conference 2026. Currently completing a double degree, Shae is carving out a remarkable future.	After 10 years in the dental industry, Taylib made the courageous decision to change careers. She works in recruitment at MRAEL whilst balancing the demands of work, study, pregnancy and new motherhood with resilience and determination. A proud Kalkatungu and Birrigubba woman, Taylib embraced every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Through her journey, she hopes to inspire other First Nations people to consider traineeships as a meaningful and rewarding pathway, demonstrating that new opportunities can be achieved with commitment, confidence and perseverance.

For outstanding achievement by a student who has recently completed or is due to complete a VET qualification in Queensland.

Sponsor

For over 140 years, TAFE Queensland has delivered practical, industry-relevant training, equipping over 139,000 students annually, including 29,700 apprentices, with skills for rewarding careers. As Queensland’s largest training provider, TAFE Queensland offers 400+ qualifications across 60+ locations, empowering people to achieve their greatness now and into the future.

Finalists

Amelia Reid Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance Registered Training Organisation: Connect 'n' Grow	Madison Hillier Qualification: Certificate III in Laboratory Skills Registered Training Organisation: CQUniversity	Sol Ferguson Qualification: Diploma of Leadership and Management Registered Training Organisation: ITFE Employer: Lawrence and Hanson
Still at school, Amelia Reid is already making an impression in Queensland's health sector. Completing aged care placement while studying for a pathway into nursing, Amelia was selected to represent fellow students in a meeting with the Queensland Minister for Education. A House Captain, Student Action Group leader and Yeppoon Coral Society performer, Amelia brings a rare blend of community commitment and clinical ambition to vocational education.	From pathology to ammonium nitrate plants, Madison Hillier has pursued science with extraordinary drive for someone still in high school. As the youngest participant in her group at CQUniversity, Madison unlocked a passion for biomedical science, completed three science work experiences, and attended JCU's Heroes in Science program in the Daintree Rainforest. Spirit Captain, cheerleader and a natural teacher, Madison proves rural students can reach world-class heights.	As Branch Manager at Lawrence and Hanson Mackay, Sol Ferguson didn't just study leadership — Sol applied it in real time. The Diploma of Leadership and Management sharpened Sol's ability to coach teams, drive performance and contribute to a network-wide leadership model developed alongside the company's training and development team. A hands-on leader who leads through accountability and continuous improvement, Sol demonstrates exactly what workplace-based VET can achieve.

For outstanding achievement by a trainee who has recently completed or is due to complete a traineeship in Queensland.

Sponsor

MEGT is an Australian not-for-profit organisation that has been supporting employers, apprentices, trainees and job seekers for 40 years. Established in 1982, MEGT's flexible, low-risk labour solutions and expertise in sourcing, screening, and employing high-quality apprentices and trainees ensures we place the right people in the right jobs to fill skills gaps and future-proof our Australian workforce.

Finalists

Alyssa McCulloch Qualification: Certificate III in Business Registered Training Organisation: Australian College of Commerce and Management Employer: Apprentices and Trainees Queensland	Mikayla Capil Qualification: Certificate III in Community Pharmacy Registered Training Organisation: The Pharmacy Guild of Australia Employer: Direct Chemist Outlet, Central Highlands	Shae Ridgeway Qualification: Certificate III in Events Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Mackay Regional Council
Alyssa transformed an unexpected traineeship opportunity into a rewarding career pathway in business administration. Starting the program lacking confidence and direction, Alyssa discovered strengths in communication, teamwork and leadership. Alongside training and work commitments, Alyssa balanced caring responsibilities for family members and has become a strong advocate for vocational education and community involvement. Volunteering with The Shelter Collective and mentoring other trainees reflects Alyssa’s resilience, initiative and commitment to supporting others.	Working as a qualified Pharmacy Assistant, Mikayla has successfully balanced school, studies and work. Recently commencing a Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy, she is continuing to develop her skills and career in the healthcare sector. Mikayla supports customers, assists with dispensary operations and mentors junior staff. Having started as a school-based trainee, she was recognised as the 2025 MRAEL School-based Trainee of the Year and a top 3 finalist in the Central Queensland 2025 Queensland Training Awards, reflecting her determination, professionalism and commitment to success.	Shae combined creativity, culture and community impact through her work across major regional events including the Mackay Festival of Arts and Global Grooves. Shae developed skills in event coordination, marketing and stakeholder engagement while supporting tourism and economic development initiatives. A proud Aboriginal and South Sea Islander woman from Yuwi Country, Shae champions cultural representation and youth leadership through industry networks and community engagement. Shae’s passion for creating meaningful community connections are reflected in her contributions to First Nations and regional initiatives.

For outstanding achievement by an apprentice who has recently completed or is due to complete an apprenticeship in Queensland.

Sponsor

Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) supports apprentices, workers, and employers by funding essential training and work tickets through partnered RTOs. Collaborating with industry statewide, CSQ delivers tailored training solutions to meet local needs, helping individuals and businesses stay competitive, secure new opportunities, and adapt to the evolving construction industry.

Finalists

Aaliyah Morseu-Stagg Qualification: Certificate III in Hairdressing Registered Training Organisation: LarShar College of Beaute and Hair Employer: My Place Hair and Beauty	Billee-Jo Walz Qualification: Certificate III in Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) – Distribution Overhead Registered Training Organisation: Ergon Energy Corporation Limited Employer: Energy Queensland	Kye Robinson Qualification: Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Registered Training Organisation: MTA Institute Employer: BMAS Biloela
Aaliyah has built a reputation for her calm professionalism, strong client relationships and genuine connection with clients and colleagues alike. Her apprenticeship has been marked by dedication, growth and a passion for the Hairdressing industry. Now progressing toward a mentoring and management pathway within the salon, Aaliyah is committed to supporting others and leading by example. Proud of her culture and community, she hopes her journey will inspire other Indigenous people to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.	Billee-Jo grew up on a cattle property and arrived at Energy Queensland's ‘Girl Power’ program not knowing what a linesperson was. Billee-Jo has climbed poles in remote locations, responded to cyclone events finishing her apprenticeship ahead of schedule — near the top of the cohort. Named Energy Queensland's Apprentice of the Year and People's Choice Award winner, Billee-Jo is now a Health and Safety Representative for Pioneer region apprentices and champions women in technical and operational roles across the state.	Growing up in regional Queensland, Kye understood better than most how vital reliable machinery is to rural communities. Completing his trade at BMAS Biloela, Kye worked across everything from light vehicles to earthmoving equipment — earning himself MTA Institute’s Apprentice of the Year, a Rotary Pride of Workmanship Award and PTx Trimble Accreditation along the way. Now embarking on his second trade in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technology, Kye is proof that outstanding technical training and career development opportunities exist well beyond the city limits.