Tropical North scores top honours at state’s training awards

An Atherton Tablelands civil construction company and a Mareeba disability support worker have been recognised as top achievers at the 2021 Queensland Training Awards, which this year celebrates 60 years of excellence in training.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer it was extremely important that the hard work of the state’s outstanding apprentices, trainees, students, employers, teachers and training providers was recognised.

“We know that labour shortages are a real issue across the whole state and investing in skills is a vital way to fill those gaps,” Minister Farmer said.

“Investing in skills is at the heart of our COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan and there’s more than $1 billion in training and skills this year alone, because if you get the right training you’re more likely to get the right job.

“I congratulate all winners, finalists and nominees from around the state for their hard work, and for helping to strengthen Queensland’s VET sector which will be vital to a post-COVID-19 recovery.”

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui congratulated Robinson Civil Group (RCG) for being named the Medium Employer of the Year and Helen Millen for taking out the Vocational Student of the Year category.

“RCG, based at Wondecla, is a leading Queensland civil construction company which has significantly increased its workforce and training budget within the last two years,” Ms Lui said.

“The company has a comprehensive training program to support its staff with tailored training and development plans that suit their individual qualifications, experiences and career aspirations.

“This is the type of commitment to training that will help Queensland’s economic recovery.”

Disability Services Minister and Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said Helen Millen decided on a career change from running her own quilt and textile designing business to undertake training as a disability support worker.

“Through dedication to her studies, Helen finished her 12-month course in just over six months — completing a Certificate III in Individual Support at the end of last year,” Mr Crawford said.

“Obtaining the qualification has given Helen more confidence in her role at Flexi Choice.”

State winners across 14 categories were announced via a special live virtual event today (Friday 8 October).

To learn more about the state winners, visit www.qta.qld.gov.au.

Images of the winners available here

Media contact: Kate Talbot, 0439 803 211