Minister for Education and Training
The Honourable Geoff Wilson

Friday, September 11, 2009

TRAINING PAYS OFF FOR STATE’S TOP STUDENTS AND TRAINERS

Queensland’s top apprentices, trainees, employers and training providers were tonight recognised at the 48th annual Queensland Training Awards.

Education and Training Minister Geoff Wilson said winners in 11 categories were chosen from 48 finalists, following regional titles held across Queensland earlier this year.

“In industries as wide-ranging as animal studies, civil construction, visual arts and carpentry, these awards show how important it is for Queenslanders to keep their skills current and competitive as we face a challenging global environment,” Mr Wilson said.

“Our winners showcase the strength of our state’s training opportunities, which are not just enriching individual personal and professional experiences, but also helping a range of industries stay at the cutting edge.

“We received more than 640 impressive nominations for this year’s awards, which show that Queenslanders are working hard and are proud of their achievements.”

Winners can compete for the national title at the Australian Training Awards, held in Canberra on November 19, 2009.

“The Queensland Training Awards, staged by the Department of Education and Training, reflect the Bligh Government’s priority to deliver high-quality training,” Mr Wilson said.

“Our proactive strategies include a $700 million investment in the training portfolio this financial year, a revitalised Queensland Skills Plan, Small Business Solutions expansion, and continued commitment to school-based apprenticeships, already up 51 per cent since 2006.

“The key challenge is to build the skills basis in schooling and vocational education so we maximise the opportunity for young Queenslanders as the State’s economy returns to strong growth.”

For more information, visit www.qta.qld.gov.au.

A full list of state winners follows.

Media contact: Jo Crompton on 3237 1000

2009 QUEENSLAND TRAINING AWARDS — WINNERS

Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Construction Skills Queensland
Craig Folker, Certificate III in Engineering - Electrical/Electronic Trade, Gold Coast Institute of TAFE, from Paradise Point.

Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year, sponsored by BUSY AT WORK
Michael Pope, Certificate IV in Competitive Manufacturing, Applied Training Solutions Pty Ltd, from Gladstone

Vocational Student of the Year, sponsored by Queensland Alumina Limited
Ariella Anderson, Diploma of Visual Art, Wide Bay Institute of TAFE, from Bundaberg

School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year, sponsored by BUSY AT WORK
Priyanka Luecke, Certificate III in Business Administration, Martin College, from Tingalpa

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Vincent Schrieber, Certificate II in Water Industry Operations, Simmonds & Bristow, from Yarrabah

Small Employer of the Year, sponsored by Manufacturing Skills Queensland
Gilkatho Pty Ltd, from Milton

Employer of the Year, sponsored by CareerOne
Queensland Alumina Limited from Gladstone

Public Training Provider of the Year, sponsored by ENERGEX
Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE

Private Training Organisation of the Year, sponsored by the Australian Council for Private Education and Training (ACPET)
Blue Dog Training, from Toowong

Skilling for the Future Award, sponsored by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
J.J. Richards Engineering Pty Ltd, from Underwood

Premier’s Innovation in Skilling Award, sponsored by Education City
Transport & Logistics Workforce Advisory Group, from Brisbane

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