South East QTA regional winners named

Training and Skills Minister Yvette D’Ath has announced the South East regional winners of the Queensland Training Awards (QTA) for 2015.

Mrs D’Ath said eight talented South East winners had been selected from a high-calibre group of 22 finalists, who were shortlisted from 80 nominations.

“My congratulations go to each of the eight winners, who will now go on to represent the South East region at the Queensland Training Awards state finals in September,” Mrs D’Ath said.

The 2015 South East QTA regional winners are: 

• Michael King, Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year
• Ariel Muntelwit, Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year
• Monique Howell, School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
• Megan Colby, Vocational Student of the Year
• Kieran Chilcott, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
• Angela Schafer, VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year
• Jen Stuart of Jen’s Garden Design, Small Employer of the Year
• Sub Central, Employer of the Year.

The regional winners were announced at the QTA South East Regional Finals Presentation Dinner at Mantra On View at Surfers Paradise on 17 July.

“Regional finals like this event on the Gold Coast are being held across the state in July and August,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“A total of 163 regional finalists in seven regions are competing for a chance to reach the QTA state finals in September.

“They are apprentices, trainees, teachers and trainers, and employers who have been recognised for their achievements at the local level.”

Mrs D’Ath said the Queensland Training Awards highlighted excellence in the state’s training sector.

“The State Government is committed to supporting training and skills development for all Queenslanders,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“Employment is our number one priority so it’s vital that we give people access to the training they need to access real jobs and opportunities.

“This is particularly important in our regional communities, where programs like our $240 million Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative will make a real difference to jobseekers.”

The Queensland Training Awards are run by the Department of Education and Training. For further information visit www.qta.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: Scott Dixon 0455 051 900