North Queensland regional final

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

Winner

Millair Climate Control and Electrical

Millair Climate Control and Electrical equips apprentices and technicians with the expertise required to work across electrical, refrigeration and air-conditioning industries. Training is closely aligned to real-world projects, allowing employees to apply their skills in regional and remote environments. This hands-on approach is helping develop a highly capable and adaptable workforce.

Finalists

CircUP Arts	Woodfield Engineering
CircUP Arts is transforming lives through skills development in the performing arts. Training programs combine circus disciplines, movement and performance with confidence building, teamwork and leadership development. By creating inclusive learning environments, CircUP Arts provides young people with pathways into creative industries while developing valuable life skills.	Since 2000, Woodfield Engineering has invested in developing practical engineering expertise through apprenticeships and workplace learning. Employees are exposed to a broad range of projects and industries, providing opportunities to build technical knowledge and problem-solving capability. This commitment to developing skilled professionals has underpinned the company's continued success.

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

Winner

Cowboys Leagues Club

Cowboys Leagues Club combines hospitality excellence with a strong commitment to workforce development. Team members have access to training across customer service, operations and leadership, creating clear pathways for career advancement. By investing in its people, the club continues to develop hospitality professionals in North Queensland.

Finalists

Mike Carney Toyota	Townsville City Council
Mike Carney Toyota is preparing employees for the future of the automotive industry through ongoing technical and professional development. Apprentices, technicians and customer service professionals gain exposure to emerging technologies while developing the skills required to excel in a rapidly evolving sector. This focus on learning supports both workforce growth and exceptional customer outcomes.	Townsville City Council offers diverse opportunities for employees to build meaningful careers while serving the local community. Apprenticeships, traineeships and leadership programs support workforce development across a broad range of professions and services. Through its investment in people, the council is helping shape a skilled and capable workforce for Townsville

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.

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.

Winner

Cowboys Community Foundation
Program: Dream, Believe, Achieve (DBA)

DBA delivers a structured training-to-employment program combining accredited vocational education, workplace learning and intensive mentoring for disadvantaged North Queenslanders. Through partnerships with Allara Learning and local employers, participants complete Hospitality and Engineering pathways supported by individual learning plans, job shadowing and structured placements. The program uses flexible, inclusive delivery models and culturally safe support to build confidence, practical skills and employability, creating clear pathways from training into sustainable employment and further study.

Finalists

Energy Skills Queensland Program: Rail to Track Employment Program	Five Bridges Program: Peak Compassion
The Rail to Track Employment Program provides hands-on rail training and workforce reintegration program for people on parole, combining accredited training with site-based learning and structured industry exposure. Delivered with Occupational Skills Centre Australia, employers and Community Corrections, the program uses trauma-informed, culturally safe and flexible training approaches. Participants receive mentoring, practical skills development and workplace experience to support confidence building, capability development and transition into sustainable employment in the rail and infrastructure sector.	The Peak Compassion program delivers a staged vocational training pathway into community services, combining foundation skills with Certificate II and III qualifications. It integrates small-cohort learning, work experience placements and intensive case management to support disadvantaged learners. Delivered with Look Now Training and employer partners, it uses flexible, contextualised and supported delivery methods. Participants receive wrap around support and structured mentoring to build capability, complete training and transition into sustainable employment in the child, youth and family services sector.

Sponsor

Townsville City Council proudly sponsors the Community Training Initiative of the Year award, supporting the Queensland Government Training Awards. As a major North Queensland employer, Council fosters a skilled, inclusive workforce through partnerships, traineeships, and apprenticeships, aligning with its vision to build resilient communities and create opportunities for local people and businesses.

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

Winner

Casey Vea Vea
TAFE Queensland

Casey left frontline youth and child protection work, to make more of an impact. Now teaching Youth Work at TAFE Queensland Townsville, Casey still works casually with the Salvation Army, so her teaching remains aligned to current industry practices. She developed the Youth Work Refresher Course from scratch after identifying a sector gap, launched the first Youth Mental Health First Aid delivery in Townsville, and brings in guest speakers from Queensland Police, North Queensland Domestic Violence Resource Service and Youth Justice every teaching block.

Finalists

Justin Carty TAFE Queensland	Peta-Ann Petersen Allens Training
Justin spent years in the defence force before completing his plumbing qualifications, running his own business and eventually landing at TAFE Queensland's Bohle campus. In 2 years, he has rebuilt plumbing training content, introduced AutoCAD-based practical design into Certificate III and IV, developed a fire practical test from scratch, presented educator professional development sessions, and progressed changes to qualification prerequisite sequencing through formal regional governance. He’s currently studying a Bachelor of Adult Education which will soon be added to his list of achievements.	For more than 2 decades, Peta-Ann has delivered first aid training in and around Townsville. Committed to continuous learning, she is currently studying advanced resuscitation, mental health support for first responders and medical terminology. She also volunteers her time to support the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride for the Children's Cancer Institute and provides first aid training and vessel kit servicing for Reeling Veterans North Queensland. Having assessed over 8,500 students, Peta-Ann equips people with the skills and confidence to act when it matters most.

Sponsor

Apprenticeship Support Australia boosts apprenticeship commencement and completion rates by supporting employers and apprentices. With 75+ years of experience, it offers training advice, helps access government funding, assists with recruitment, and provides ongoing mentoring. Services are delivered nationwide through Business NSW, Victorian Chamber of Commerce, and CCI WA.

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

Winner

Daud Suleiman Hersi Warsama
Qualification: Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways/Certificate III in Information Technology
Registered Training Organisation: ACE Community Colleges

Born in United Arab Emirates and raised in India, Daud arrived in Townsville in 2025 after years of uncertainty and displacement. He found structure and direction through Townsville Multicultural Support Group’s (TMSG) Skilling Queenslanders for Work program. Daud completed a Certificate III in Information Technology and is now studying a Diploma of Information Technology in Advanced Networking and Cloud Engineering. Daud is building a career in network security while inspiring others in his community to pursue the same opportunities.

Finalists

Emma Joyce Qualification: Certificate III in Hospitality Registered Training Organisation: Training Unlimited Employer: Hungry Jacks	Zac Harrison Qualification: Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) Registered Training Organisation: TESS (Training Employment Support Services) Employer: Kith and Kin
At 16, Emma started working at Hungry Jack’s, completing a Certificate III in Hospitality while balancing family responsibilities and personal challenges. Now 18, Emma is one of Hungry Jack’s youngest assistant managers in Queensland and is working through the portfolios required for her next promotion. She has won Townsville’s Best Barista Competition and actively encourages her own staff to take up traineeships, knowing first hand the difference a qualification and the right support can make to a young person's life.	Finding direction and purpose after a difficult period, Zac enrolled in a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) and gradually rebuilt his confidence alongside his skills. Shaped by a deep family connection to the disability sector and a father whose resilience continues to inspire him, Zac overcame communication barriers to become an engaged and capable member of his cohort. Now on placement with Kith and Kin in Townsville, Zac is building a career defined by compassion, respect and a genuine commitment to others.

Sponsor

STEPS empowers individuals and communities through inclusive training, employment, and support services. As a national not-for-profit organisation, STEPS is dedicated to breaking down barriers, creating opportunities, and building a sense of belonging, ensuring everyone has the chance to achieve their full potential. STEPS is committed to making a difference by providing opportunities that truly change lives.

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

Winner

Cameron Kerr
Qualification: Certificate III in Barbering
School: Kirwan State High School
Registered Training Organisation: Ardor College
Employer: HYP3 Barbers

Cameron sat in a barber chair at 15 and understood something immediately, barbering is about confidence, creativity and connection, not just hair. Starting by practising on friends and posting the results online, Cameron is now completing a school-based apprenticeship at HYP3 Barbers in Townsville. A multi-sport representative captain, including leading the North Queensland School boys soccer team to a grand final, Cameron brings the same leadership to the barbershop floor, building client relationships one conversation at a time.

Finalists

Izabel De Buck Qualification: Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician School: TecNQ Registered Training Organisation: TecNQ Employer: Port of Townsville	Travis Mullaly Qualification: Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology School: Hughenden State School Registered Training Organisation: MTA Institute Employer: Hughenden Motorcycles
Izabel has achieved an incredible milestone, becoming one of the Port of Townsville's first school-based electrotechnology apprentices in over twenty years — a testament to her talent, dedication, and hard work. Now working across high-voltage infrastructure, cranes and wharf electrical assets in a maritime industrial environment, Izabel regularly represents the Port and TecNQ at careers events, showing young women that technical trades are not just accessible but genuinely rewarding. Multiple academic excellence awards highlight the same determination she applies in the workplace.	Travis lives on a remote cattle station and has on occasion flown into town during the wet season to make sure he doesn't miss a training day. That level of commitment defines everything Travis does and is a testament to his achievements including 2026 School Captain, House Captain, North Queensland School boys rugby league representative, and Outstanding Academic Achievement recipient. He treats every motorcycle like it's his own demonstrating his passion for his work, customers and trade.

Sponsor

Aviation Australia is a leading aviation training provider and proud sponsor of the Queensland Training Awards. Committed to excellence in vocational education, the organisation supports the development of skilled aviation professionals and sustainable career pathways, helping shape the future workforce while celebrating outstanding training achievements across Queensland.

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

Winner

Cassius McLeod
Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
School: Proserpine State High School
Registered Training Organisation: Connect 'n' Grow
Employer: Seed Employment
Host Employer: Mackay Hospital & Health Services - Bowen Hospital

Building on a Certificate II in Health Support Services, Cassius has taken the next step with a school based traineeship at Bowen Hospital with maturity and purpose well beyond his years. A proud First Nations student from Proserpine State High School, Cassius has earned the respect and admiration of those around him. One mentor said Cassius’s story is the kind that gives people goosebumps. Focused, hardworking and driven, Cassius is laying strong foundations for a future career in healthcare.

Finalist

Aleshia Morris Qualification: Certificate III in Community Services Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Community Gro

Aleshia Morris, a proud Meriam Mir woman from Townsville, once sat in a Community Gro women's group seeking support and connection. Today, she works there full-time as a Connector, supporting families from pregnancy through to early childhood. Invited to speak at her graduation — the first graduation she had ever attended — Aleshia's journey reflects remarkable determination and personal growth. She now shares Torres Strait Islander language with school children, passing culture, knowledge and pride to the next generation.

Sponsor

Connect ‘n’ Grow delivers high-quality, industry-focused training to prepare job-ready health and human services workers. With expert trainers across Queensland, it redesigns education pathways for secondary schools nationally. Guided by its values, Connect ‘n’ Grow builds strong relationships, prioritises students, embraces truth, and fosters collaboration to inspire future generations.

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

Winner

Chelsea Winters
Qualification: Diploma of Leadership and Management / Diploma of Work Health and Safety (and Graduate Diploma in Mining Engineering)
Registered Training Organisation: Right Choice Training (Grad Dip via Federation University)
Employer: Mount Isa Mines, Glencore

Between underground shifts, Chelsea completed five Certificate IVs, a dual Diploma, a Graduate Diploma in Mining Engineering and commenced a Masters, all while mentoring a crew of 24 and operating 13 pieces of heavy machinery. Appointed Justice of the Peace in 2025 and expecting her first child in August, Chelsea is a trailblazer for women in underground mining who proves that ambition, safety and community contribution can all run in parallel.

Finalists

Aleshia Morris Qualification: Certificate III in Community Services Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Community Gro	Katya Sobotnik Qualification: Diploma of Event Management Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Cowboys Community Foundation
Aleshia Morris, a proud Meriam Mir woman from Townsville, once sat in a Community Gro women's group seeking support and connection. Today, she works there full-time as a Connector, supporting families from pregnancy through to early childhood. Invited to speak at her graduation — the first graduation she had ever attended — Aleshia's journey reflects remarkable determination and personal growth. She now shares Torres Strait Islander language with school children, passing culture, knowledge and pride to the next generation.	Studying online as a new mum in Townsville, Katya has overcome debilitating sickness during her pregnancy, balancing her education with significant community leadership. She independently coordinated a charity gala raising funds for Orange Sky and founded Blush and Brunch Townsville to help women build connections and a sense of belonging in a new city. Proudly declaring her TAFE affiliation whenever she enters a room, Katya is a passionate advocate for vocational education and demonstrates the impact of determination, initiative and community-minded leadership.

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.

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

Winner

Nicole Cervoni
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland
Employer: Burdekin Shire Council

Nicole packed an extraordinary amount into 1 year during her traineeship. She launched a Digital Mentors program, running community Cricut workshops, was elected Burdekin Youth Mayor, won the 2025 Burdekin Young Citizen of the Year award, and earnt TAFE Queensland's 2025 Business Trainee of the Year award. She also finished her studies two months early. This self-described ‘girl with the best book recommendations’ turned a library counter into a launchpad, combining exceptional community leadership with a natural gift for connecting with people of all ages.

Finalists

Raquel Layton Qualification: Certificate III in Aquaculture Registered Training Organisation: Seafood & Maritime Training Employer: GFB Fisheries / Spring Creek Barramundi	Kaitlin Henaway Qualification: Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations Registered Training Organisation: Flexible Training Solutions Employer: Community Solutions Host Employer: Northline
With a background in marine science research from the United States, Raquel brought an international perspective to barramundi farming in Townsville. Completing a Certificate III in Aquaculture unlocked a deeper technical understanding of fish health, water quality and biosecurity, skills that earned a promotion to her position as Water Quality and Fish Health Technician at Spring Creek Barramundi. A passionate advocate for the aquaculture industry, Raquel actively mentors’ veterinary students and fellow technicians, championing diversity and innovation on the farm.	Entering the logistics industry with zero experience, Kaitlin turned curiosity into a career, completing a 24-month traineeship in just 17 months. Now operating forklifts, complex logistics systems and training incoming staff, Kaitlin has become a confident Customer Service and Operations Officer. Selected to share her story nationally on International Women's Day 2025, Kaitlin is a tireless advocate for women entering transport and logistics, bringing the same energy to the warehouse as to the basketball courts she coaches young athletes.

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.

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

Winner

Nicola Todd
Qualification: Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland
Employer: Penske Australia

After becoming a qualified hairdresser at 19, Nicola went on to complete a light vehicle mechanic apprenticeship and is now nearing completion of her third trade as a heavy vehicle mechanic. She is the only technician in her workshop to hold both a HVAC licence and heavy rigid truck licence. Nicola also volunteers as a rural firefighter and is a leader within her community as coach of Townsville Grammar’s under 18 netball team. She continues to break down barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Finalists

Brianna Thirlwall Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Mount Isa Mines, Glencore	Renee Moran Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (Boilermaker) Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Mount Isa Mines, Glencore
In 2024, while completing a Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology, Brianna developed a rare brain infection that left her temporarily unable to walk, talk or read. After relearning these skills, she returned to complete her trade and was named Female Trade Student of the Year at the 2025 Mount Isa Trade Excellence Awards. Brianna has since secured a planner role at George Fisher Mine and featured on ABC News and Radio advocating for women in trades whilst mentoring others in Glencore’s ‘Girls in Mining’ program.	Renee discovered a passion for fabrication in high school and pursued it into one of Australia’s most demanding industrial environments. Upon completion of her boiler making trade she was named Engineering Trade Student of the Year. Renee now mentors aspiring tradeswomen through the ‘Girls in Mining’ program, guiding another student through their own boiler making apprenticeship. A committee member of Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) and volunteer with the Zonta Rodeo Queen Quest, she is helping shape a more inclusive industry.

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.