Tropical North stars named in 60th Queensland Training Awards

Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer today named 28 Tropical North Queensland region 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.”

Weipa’s Reece Zamiak is one of the top training talents selected as a Tropical North regional finalist.

“Reece is a regional finalist in both the Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year categories,” Minister Farmer said.

“Reece did work experience with a local electrician in Weipa, before travelling to Cairns to undertake a Certificate III in Electrotechnology at TAFE Queensland to complete his training.

“Now, he prides himself on being a mentor, visiting schools to encourage students to consider a trade career.”

The other finalists with Reece in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year category are Keegan Nolan for his maritime operations studies and Siobhan Hogan who studied for a Certificate II in Engineering.

“Marlin Coast Neighbourhood Centre (MCNC) has also been recognised, selected as a regional finalist in the Community Training Initiative of the Year category, for its inclusive, community-focused vocational training program for participants experiencing significant learning and employment barriers,” Minister Farmer said.

“The centre has developed pathways to employment through community partnerships, resulting in a 78 per cent employment outcome.”

Regional finalists in the Employer of the Year categories include Robinson Civil Group, Norship, GMH Electrical Contracting, Mark Fletcher Solid Plaster & Texture Coatings, and Tokunai Hair.

“All have been selected for their commitment to training and for establishing trades and tertiary pathways for their employees, apprentices and trainees,” Minister Farmer said.

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

The winners from Tropical 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