Queensland Training Awards State Final

Celebrate 65 years of excellence with the 2026 Queensland Training Awards State Final winners.

Recognise the outstanding achievements of this year’s finalists —apprentices, trainees, students, teachers, trainers, employers, and organisations — who are shaping the future of Queensland’s workforce.

It was a memorable evening of celebration, connection and inspiration honouring the people and organisations driving skills, opportunity and success across our regions.

Celebrate their stories and achievements, and be inspired by what’s possible!

Winners and finalists

For an exemplary skills development collaboration between at least 1 employer/industry body and at least 1 training provider.

Winner

Townsville Aviation Training Academy
Aviation Australia and Boeing Defence Australia

The Townsville Aviation Training Academy brings Aviation Australia and Boeing Defence Australia together to build a long-term aviation maintenance workforce in North Queensland. The Academy delivers Defence-aligned training for Apache and Chinook maintenance, with pathways stretching from school-based aviation programs through to apprenticeships and licence-ready technician roles. Its Townsville location removes the need for regional learners to relocate for specialist training, while the co-designed curriculum aligns civil aviation and Defence requirements to create skills that are transferable across Defence, commercial and general aviation.

Finalists

ASSA Academy, Ampd Academy and Australian Swim Schools Association. In-Tent for Change resilience programs, Youth Enterprise Trust
ASSA Academy brings Ampd Academy and the Australian Swim Schools Association together to tackle a critical shortage of qualified swimming and water safety teachers. Combining flexible, industry-designed training with direct connections to swim schools and aquatic employers, the collaboration creates pathways from school to employment. Its innovative delivery includes gamified learning, workplace assessment and a national network of industry Ambassadors supporting practical training. By growing the aquatic workforce, ASSA Academy is helping more people access swimming lessons while strengthening water safety in communities across Queensland. In-Tent for Change supports vulnerable young Queenslanders to reconnect with education, training and employment through a six-month, collaboratively delivered program combining resilience development, life skills and a Certificate II in Hospitality. Working in partnership with industry stakeholders, community organisations and training providers, the program is delivered at the 302-acre Woodstock Farm in Tamborine, where participants gain practical experience through community events, social enterprise activities and industry-informed training. This strengths-based, cross-sector approach builds confidence, capability and clearer pathways forward.

Sponsor

Hutchies builds more than buildings. They build people, places, futures — and they’ve been doing it since 1912. As Australia’s largest privately-owned construction company, they deliver across every sector, every scale, every corner of the country. With 1,800 people, a debt-free $400+ million balance sheet and $3 billion turnover, they’re proudly building the next century – the Hutchies way.

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

Winner

Byrne Lawyers, Central Queensland
Byrne Lawyers has grown from a 13-person Gladstone practice into a regional legal powerhouse of 65 staff across Gladstone, Bundaberg and Biloela. Rather than relying on attracting experienced professionals to regional Queensland, the firm has embraced a ‘grow your own’ philosophy. Traineeships and entry-level opportunities provide a starting point, with structured training and further study supporting progression throughout the business. Seven Business Administration trainees are currently completing VET qualifications, while more than half the workforce is undertaking structured internal training.

Finalists

Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation, Tropical North Queensland
Millair Climate Control and Electrical, North Queensland
Bridgeman, North Coast
Abrik, Metropolitan
BLASK Engineering, Darling Downs South West
ONGC Systems, South East

Sponsor

Building Industry Training (BIT) was established in 2013 to help the building and construction industry by offering more productive, worksite, face-to-face, onsite training and assessment. Today, BIT has a team of 13 industry specialist trainers who deliver 11 trade qualifications statewide. The dedication of BIT trainers and staff has seen the business grow to currently train and assess over 1,100 apprentices across Queensland.

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

Winner

Cowboys Leagues Club, North Queensland

Faced with hospitality skills shortages, Cowboys Leagues Club decided to grow its own.  The Townsville institution is creating pathways from school-based training through to apprenticeships, roles across the venue and management careers. In 2026, 23 employees are expected to undertake or complete VET qualifications, including 13 school-based trainees and five commercial cookery apprentices. With employees regularly progressing into leadership positions, the Club’s investment in training is building a loyal, home-grown hospitality workforce equipped to serve its more than 35,000 members.

Finalists

CaPTA Group, Tropical North Queensland
Queensland Alumina Limited, Central Queensland
Allweld Manufacturing, North Coast
The Drake Group, Metropolitan
RDO Equipment, Darling Downs South West
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, South East

Sponsor

Mas National, part of the IntoWork Group, has delivered employment and apprenticeship support for over 25 years. Operating across NSW, ACT, QLD, SA, and TAS, Mas National partners with stakeholders to provide apprenticeship sign-ups, mentoring and workforce opportunities, 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

N.E.S.T. Eco-conservation Skills Traineeship program, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, South East

The N.E.S.T. Eco-conservation Skills Traineeship turns a passion for the environment into a pathway to employment. Delivered by National Trust of Australia (Queensland) through Skilling Queenslanders for Work, the 18-week paid program supports disadvantaged job seekers to gain accredited conservation training alongside hands-on experience at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Garima Conservation Reserve. Participants restore habitats, regenerate bushland and build job-ready skills with tailored mentoring and wraparound support. Strong outcomes include a 98% qualification completion rate and 90% employment for 2025 graduates.

Finalists

Community Integrated Trade Training program, Fresh Start Academy, Tropical North Queensland
Dream, Believe, Achieve program, Cowboys Community Foundation, North Queensland
Ignite Your Opportunities program, Apprentices and Trainees Queensland, Central Queensland
ForgeAhead program, Chatsworth Park Ranch, North Coast
SmartAg Queensland, Queensland Farmers' Federation, Metropolitan
Care2Career program, Horizon 2 and Civic Assist, Darling Downs South West

For a small registered training organisation, with fewer than 500 students, that demonstrates excellence in all aspects of vocational education and training.

Winner

Orbus3

Founded in 2013, Orbus3 delivers practical, industry-led civil construction training across Queensland, with a strong focus on regional and remote communities. Its worksite-based model takes training directly to learners, helping remove barriers created by distance, work commitments and limited access to traditional delivery. Supported by highly experienced trainers, strong industry partnerships and flexible learning options, Orbus3 combines accessibility with quality and integrity.

Finalists

Foot in the Door TrainingThe Hair and Barber Academy

Foot in the Door Training (FITD) creates pathways to employment for people with disability, young people and disadvantaged learners across North Brisbane and Caboolture. Students build their confidence in FITD’s fully operational training café and retail op-shop, serving real customers, preparing espresso coffee and operating point-of-sale systems before progressing to external workplaces. The organisation is recognised for its leadership in inclusive training practice and its deep community partnerships, which underpin its commitment to creating meaningful, supported pathways into employment.

The Hair and Barber Academy brings training to life through commercial-style salons and barbershops at its Brisbane and Gold Coast campuses, where students develop their skills on real clients under the guidance of industry-active educators. Its innovative approach includes video analysis of technical assessments, QR-accessed technique videos and peer-to-peer mentoring. The Academy combines hands-on learning with strong industry connections, helping graduates master the technical skills, commercial awareness and confidence needed to step straight onto the salon or barbershop floor.

For a large registered training organisation, with 500 or more students, that demonstrates excellence in all aspects of vocational education and training.

Winner

Asset College

Asset College connects vocational training directly with employment, supporting learners across Queensland into safety-critical roles in security and public safety. Its programs create pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants, long-term unemployed people, culturally diverse communities, veterans and women entering non-traditional industries. In 2025, nearly 10,000 students completed training. Asset College has also developed the nationally recognised Diploma of Operational Safety in consultation with more than 100 industry stakeholders to help address occupational violence and aggression across multiple sectors.

Finalists

Blue Dog TrainingTAFE Queensland

Blue Dog Training has built its approach around a simple principle: trade training should feel like the job itself. Apprentices learn directly on active worksites, applying skills with real tools, materials and construction projects alongside their employer. Its strong school partnerships also help young Queenslanders take their first steps into construction and engineering careers, supported by trainers who act as mentors throughout the journey. This practical, relationship-driven model connects schools, employers and learners to create genuine pathways into the trades.

TAFE Queensland supports more than 139,000 learners each year across more than 60 locations, from Thursday Island to Coolangatta. In 2025, it launched 12 Extended Reality Hubs, allowing students to safely practise complex tasks in immersive environments—from exploring a beating heart to navigating hydrogen facilities and trade workshops. Innovation also extends to regional delivery, with mobile training facilities taking renewable energy and critical minerals training directly to communities.

Sponsor

Apprenticeship Support Australia provides high-quality skills development and solutions to businesses and job seekers across Australia. They offer employers holistic business-wide training advice and can assist in recommending suitable qualifications, accessing eligible Government funding, helping with matching and recruiting staff, and providing ongoing coaching, mentoring, and support for apprentices and trainees..

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

Winner

Erin Pender, Loganlea State High School, South East

From leading professional kitchens to inspiring the next generation, Erin Pender brings the hospitality industry directly into the classroom at Loganlea State High School. The former Head Chef creates authentic learning through industry events, masterclasses and workplace immersion, including experiences with chef Matt Golinski and Tangalooma Island Resort. Since 2019, her STAR Hospitality Excellence Program has helped students turn their skills into careers, with graduates progressing into hospitality, Teys Australia and the Australian Defence Force, supported by strong and enduring industry partnerships.

Finalists

Roisin Murphy, TAFE Queensland, Tropical North Queensland
Casey Vea Vea, TAFE Queensland, North Queensland
Colin Crichton, MTA Institute, Central Queensland
David Bradford, Horizon 2 and Bradford Institute of Advanced Education, North Coast
Nigel Gorman, Aussie Painters Network, Metropolitan
Mark Taylor, UQ Skills, Darling Downs South West

Sponsor

Originally founded in Rockhampton in 1967 and becoming a University in 1992, CQUniversity supports more than 30,000 students studying online and on campus across Australia.  CQUniversity is proud to be recognised as 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.

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

Winner

Krystal Marie Lunny, Certificate III in Hairdressing, Metropolitan

A dream nearly 20 years in the making became a reality when Krystal completed her hairdressing apprenticeship with Epic Hair Designs through Matters in Gray. Overcoming life-changing injuries and significant personal hardship, she completed her trade through extraordinary determination and resilience, while creating greater stability for her three daughters. Now navigating new physical challenges, Krystal is looking towards training and mentoring, with a goal of supporting future apprentices and giving others the same encouragement and belief that helped shape her own journey.

Finalists

Colleen Wallace, Certificate III in Business, Tropical North Queensland
Daud Suleiman Hersi Warsama, Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways, North Queensland
Shannyn Kay Bonerath, Diploma of Beauty Therapy (Relaxation Massage), Central Queensland
Kara Sweetman, Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability), North Coast
Stephanie McCorkle, Certificate III in Business, Darling Downs South West
Madeleine Kelton, Certificate I in Construction, South East

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

Winner

Tahlia Mundraby-Holmes, Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology, Tropical North Queensland

Growing up alongside her grandfather fixing cars and machinery, Tahlia discovered early that working with heavy machinery was where she belonged. A proud Mandingalbay Yidinji woman and Queensland Under 19 boxing champion, she brings the same discipline, resilience and determination to her apprenticeship through FNQ Vocational Academy and MTA Institute. Tahlia continues her training in honour of her late mother, whose encouragement helped set her on this path.

Finalists

Cameron Kerr, Certificate III in Barbering, North Queensland
Ly Nguyen, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Central Queensland
Harmony Lakatos, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, North Coast
Mason Irving, Certificate III in Carpentry, Metropolitan
Amarni Andrew, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, Darling Downs South West
Grace Hope, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, South East

Sponsor

The Industry School is an independent senior-secondary school dedicated to a revolutionary ‘half-classroom, half-industry experience’ education model. Designed for students in Years 10, 11, and 12, they believe that academic achievement and vocational excellence are not mutually exclusive; instead, they work in tandem to prepare young people for the modern workforce. Through their unique curriculum and extensive network of more than 3,000 industry partners, students gain nationally recognised qualifications and real-world skills while completing their high school education. With tailored student support and 6 campuses across South-East Queensland (Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Redlands, Toowoomba and Ipswich), every student is known, encouraged, and supported to succeed.

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

Winner

Stirling Ludwick, Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, Tropical North Queensland

From trainee ranger to Junior Ranger Team Leader, Stirling has built his career through a commitment to learning, leadership and community. Since joining the GMYPPBC Ranger Program in 2023, he has helped young rangers achieve qualifications while continuing his own development through a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Balancing work, study and responsibilities as a father of four, Stirling has represented GMYPPBC and Yarrabah at national and international forums, embodying the GMYPPBC motto, “Show Up to Go Up”, through action, leadership and achievement.

Finalists

Cassius McLeod, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance,  North Queensland
Taylib Glover, Certificate III in Business, Central Queensland
Taylah Gela, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, North Coast
Baylee Proctor, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, Metropolitan
Hannah Mundey, Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, Darling Downs South West
Locklyn Kinyingarra O'Loughlin, Certificate III in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, South East

Sponsor

The Apprentice Employment Network (AEN) Qld and NT is the peak industry body representing group training organisations, with the largest group of employers of apprentices and trainees. Their network of employers supports more than 4,000 apprentices and trainees across all Queensland regions and the Northern Territory, from cities to remote communities. As a voice of industry providing support and leadership to their members and the community, AEN assist with establishing and maintaining connections between apprentices, trainees and employees.

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

Winner

Helaine Wilesmith, Certificate IV in Marine Habitat Conservation and Restoration and Certificate IV in Conservation and Ecosystem Management, Metropolitan

After a successful career as an award-winning finance professional and Bank of Queensland franchise owner, Helaine made the bold decision to pursue her passion for conservation. Having completed dual Certificate IV qualifications through Envirotech Education, she now combines her studies with experience as a recreational fisherwoman and former Vice Commodore of a major offshore fishing club. Helaine is creating a valuable bridge between fishing and conservation communities, demonstrating how a career change can create meaningful environmental impact.

Finalists

Bianca Rickert, Diploma of Nursing, Tropical North Queensland
Chelsea Winters, Diploma of Leadership and Management and Diploma of Work Health and Safety, North Queensland
Sol Ferguson, Diploma of Leadership and Management, Central Queensland
Layla Youngberry, Certificate IV in Leadership and Management, North Coast
Tavanah McGee, Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, Darling Downs South West
Jarrod Carter, Certificate III in Fitness, South East

Sponsor

TAFE Queensland, the state’s largest training provider, supports over 140,000 students annually across 60+ locations. Offering practical, industry-relevant training from certificates to bachelor’s degrees, TAFE Queensland collaborates with government and industry to meet evolving workforce needs, ensuring graduates are skilled, confident, and ready to drive success in their careers and communities.

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

Winner

Conor Stevenson, Certificate III in Civil Construction, South East

At 24, Conor traded a career as a qualified baker for a completely new direction in civil construction. Completing a Certificate III with the City of Gold Coast, he has contributed to footpath upgrades, reservoir restoration and cyclone recovery efforts, discovering a strong sense of purpose in work that benefits his community. Conor now mentors incoming trainees and shares his experience through organisational campaigns, becoming an advocate for career changers and showing that starting again can lead to an unexpected and rewarding career.

Finalists

Landon Law-Palm, Certificate I in Workplace Skills, Tropical North Queensland
Nicole Cervoni, Certificate III in Business,  North Queensland
Shae Ridgeway, Certificate III in Events, Central Queensland
Samuel Dowd, Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management, North Coast
Pooja Lakshmi Suresh Babu, Certificate I in Workplace Skills, Metropolitan
Nina Johnstone, Certificate III in Process Plant Operations, Darling Downs South West

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 they 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, Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology, North Queensland

From hairdressing to light vehicles and now heavy machinery, Nicola has built an extraordinary career across three trades. After qualifying as a hairdresser at 19, she completed a light vehicle mechanic apprenticeship before pursuing heavy vehicle mechanics with Penske Australia and New Zealand. The only technician in her workshop to hold both HVAC and heavy rigid truck licences, Nicola continues to broaden her capabilities. Beyond work, she volunteers as a rural firefighter and coaches Townsville Grammar’s under-18 netball team, leading by example in her industry and community.

Finalists

Taylah Smith, Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician, Tropical North Queensland
Billee-Jo Walz, Certificate lll in ESI - Distribution Overhead, Central Queensland
Dylan Martin, Certificate IV in Aeroskills (Mechanical), North Coast
Sukanya (Annie) Craig, Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, Metropolitan
Brendon Newman, Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician and Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control, Darling Downs South West
Narissa Campbell, Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology, South East

Sponsor

Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) supports apprentices, workers, and employers with skills and training to thrive in the evolving construction industry. Partnering with registered training organisations, CSQ funds courses tailored to local needs, helping individuals and businesses stay competitive, secure new opportunities, and meet future industry demands across Queensland.

Contact

Simone Smiles
QTA State Coordinator
Email: qldtrainingawards@dtet.qld.gov.au

Thanks to our 2026 sponsors