Brisbane’s stars named in 60th Queensland Training Awards

Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer today named 33 metropolitan nominees among the 218 state-wide regional finalists who have been recognised for their achievements in the training system during a challenging time.

“It’s been a tough 18 months for businesses, trainers and employees who have had to adjust to different ways of working due to COVID-19,” Minister Farmer said.

“The Palaszczuk Government put investing in skills at the heart of our Economic Recovery Plan, and with over $1 billion in the recent state budget dedicated to training and skills we are delivering on that commitment.

“It’s extremely important to recognise the individuals and organisations that put training and development at the heart of what they do.

“The hard work of our outstanding apprentices, trainees, students, employers, teachers and training projects will be highlighted in the annual Queensland Training Awards, which have been celebrating the power of skills for 60 years.”

Former MasterChef Australia contestant Danielle Dixon is one of the top training talents selected as a Brisbane metropolitan regional finalist.

“Danielle, Head of School and Executive Chef at the Institute of Culinary Excellence (ICE), is one of the region’s three finalists in the VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year category,” Minister Farmer said.

“Her success story includes reaching a top 12 placing in series 3 of MasterChef after starting an apprenticeship at 29.

“Through Danielle's initiative ICE was able to transform its teaching methods in response to COVID-19, and migrate to online learning, saving countless apprenticeships and careers.

“Many businesses, trainers and employees, like Danielle, have had to adjust to different ways of working due to COVID-19 and it’s great to come together and recognise them.”

The Minister said other metropolitan regional finalists include Brisbane luxury home builders, Ambrose Homes, in the Small Employer of the Year category.

“The building company has been selected due to its business-wide focus on training,” Minister Farmer said.

“Currently, 80 per cent of Ambrose Homes' tradesmen are undertaking nationally accredited qualifications to further their skills and knowledge.

“In the Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year category, one of the region’s finalists is boat builder Thomas Robinson, who since completing his apprenticeship late last year has wasted no time in utilising his skills to design and build his own wooden ocean rowing boat.

“He plans to use this boat to become the youngest person ever to row across the Pacific Ocean, a journey that will realise a life-long dream.

“Community Training Initiative of the Year regional finalist, SunnyFutures is a Sunnybank State High School initiative designed to support Year 12 students transition to work or study. The program currently has a 72 per cent employment outcome.

“Congratulations to the regional finalists who are the skilled Queenslanders we need for our economy to continue to bounce back better.”

The winners from the Brisbane metropolitan area will be announced online in July with the state winners announced at a Gala Dinner which will return this year in September.

For the full list of regional finalists and further information visit https://desbt.qld.gov.au/training/qta

Media contact: Kate Talbot 0439 803 211