Congratulations to the Darling Downs South West region's 2025 regional winners and finalists.
The regional final was held on 1 August 2025 at Oaks Toowoomba.
Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Brylie Jones
Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade
Training provider: TAFE Queensland
Employer: Stanwell Corporation Ltd
As the first female boilermaker apprentice at Stanwell, Brylie has thrived. Her training and commitment to the trade has earnt her top placements in WorldSkills competitions and national recognition as Weld Australia's Young Tradesperson of the Year. She is deeply involved in mentoring and industry development, inspiring others with her dedication and resilience.
Finalists
Jessica Green, Certificate III in Carpentry
Samantha Johnson, Certificate IV in Engineering
Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year
Winner: Gerhard Mortimer
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: SportsReady Education Pty Ltd
Employer: Western Downs Regional Council
Gerhard's path to success includes overcoming personal challenges, including imposter syndrome, as he earned his qualification. While working at Western Downs Regional Council, he gained expertise in office management, communication, and leadership. Gerhard’s inspiring journey of personal and professional growth highlights his dedication to lifelong learning. His mission is to encourage others to break through barriers and strive for success.
Finalists
Caitlin Franklin, Certificate III in Business
Rose McMahon, Certificate III in Business
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
Darrie Lea, Diploma of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care
Samuel Simpson, Diploma of Counselling
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Winner: Lilly White
Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Training provider: Connect 'n' Grow
Employer: Kingaroy Hospital
A proud Aboriginal woman, Lilly is completing her qualification through the Deadly Start Education2Employment program. She balances her traineeship at Kingaroy Hospital with senior studies and hopes to become a midwife. Her hands-on experience has deepened her passion for supporting mothers and newborns. Lilly mentors younger Indigenous students, encouraging healthcare careers and working to help close the gap in health outcomes for her community.
Finalists
Heidi Jones, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Rose McMahon, Certificate III in Business
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
Heidi Jones, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Lilly White, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Equity Student of the Year
Winner: Gerhard Mortimer
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Training provider: SportsReady Education Pty Ltd
Employer: Western Downs Regional Council
After a spinal cord injury left him with quadriplegia, Gerhard re-entered the workforce through a business traineeship with Western Downs Regional Council. Facing physical and technological challenges, he excelled with determination and support. He now contributes meaningfully to his council workplace and is recognised for his growing confidence, resilience, and skills.
Finalists
Jacob Birch, High-Risk Work Licence (Forklift)
Majdil Bishar, Certificate I in Hospitality
VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year
Winner: Colby Clarence
Employer: Training Unlimited
Region: Darling Downs South West Region
Colbey supports over 165 hospitality students across Queensland with tailored workplace-based training. He uses innovative methods like AI tools and flexible schedules to meet diverse learner needs. His strong focus on inclusion, student engagement, and collaboration with industry partners has improved retention and completion rates. Colbey's dedication to real-world skills development and student focus support, makes him a leader in vocational education and training.
Finalists
Abby Pfingst, Kath Dickson Institute
Anne-Maree Walsh, TAFE Queensland
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
Building Skills for the Future – Multicultural Australia
Southern Downs Conservation and Ecosystem Management Traineeship – Southern Downs Industry Education Association
Large Employer of the Year
Winner: Russell Mineral Equipment
Russell Mineral Equipment (RME) offers tailored training in engineering and manufacturing including accredited operator training, digital learning platforms and mentoring. Focusing on emerging technologies like automation and robotics, RME ensures its workforce remains at the forefront of industry advancements. This commitment to continuous learning drives safety, innovation and excellence in the global mineral processing sector.
Finalists
South Burnett Regional Council
Western Downs Regional Council
Medium Employer of the Year
Winner: Global Engineering & Construction
Global Engineering and Construction delivers tailored, accredited training for remote-site staff through on-site delivery, e-learning, and mentoring. Programs like 'Pipeline to Success', supported by an on-site Training Advisor, drive course completion and career growth. By embedding training into operations, GEC has cut costs, boosted retention, and strengthened its leadership in pipeline construction.
Finalists
BLASK Engineering
South Burnett CTC Inc
Small Employer of the Year
Winner: Mandana Pty Ltd
Mandana Pty Ltd delivers sustainable Indigenous engagement solutions through workforce mentoring, traineeships, and cultural awareness training. Its mission is to support clients in meeting their commitments to Indigenous employment, procurement with Indigenous businesses, and community engagement. In partnership with MiTraining and TAFE, Mandana offers tailored qualifications like the Certificate III in Business, helping trainees build skills and overcome barriers to meaningful employment.
Finalists
Kingaroy Refrigeration Air Conditioning & Electrical
Rak Thai Kitchen
Last updated 2 August 2025
