North Queensland stars named in 60th Queensland Training Awards

Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer today named 29 North Queensland 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.”

Townsville’s Cowboys Leagues Club has been selected as a North Queensland regional finalist.

“The Cowboys Leagues Club provides meaningful training pathways to its employees from school-based traineeships to advanced diplomas and is currently supporting 25 staff members to complete formal training qualifications in hospitality and commercial cookery,” Minister Farmer said.

“The club is a regional finalist in the Medium Employer of the Year category and one of its employees, Gabriel Steer will contest the Vocational Student of the Year title.

“After becoming the youngest person promoted to duty manager at the Cowboys Leagues Club, Gabe decided to enrol in a Diploma of Hospitality Management to improve his skill set and has dreams of one day running his own venue.”

Minister Farmer said organisations had been recognised too.

“The Townsville City Council has two apprentices selected as regional finalists for the Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year award, a trainee is up for the Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year title and the council has been selected as a regional finalist in the Large Employer of the Year category,” Minister Farmer said.

“The council has built a training framework that encourages and supports its employees to complete nationally recognised qualifications.

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

The winners from North Queensland 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