Learner achievements celebrated at inaugural TasTAFE Trade Excellence Awards

More than 50 TasTAFE learners from across Tasmania have been recognised at the inaugural TasTAFE Trade Excellence Awards.

From construction to cookery and plumbing to automotive, these awards recognised 57 apprentices, trainees and workplace-based learners who demonstrated outstanding commitment and excellence in their TasTAFE training in 2024.

Around 500 learners, employers, sponsors, industry representatives and TasTAFE staff members attended ceremonies in Devonport, Launceston and Hobart during October and November to celebrate the achievements of these learners.

Thanks to our statewide sponsor Reece and regional sponsors Apprenticeship Support Australia and Kincrome for helping to make these awards such a success

These achievements of learners wouldn’t be possible without the support of the many businesses who employ our learners through apprenticeships and traineeships and the awards were a fantastic opportunity to celebrate with them.

At the Devonport event, apprentice Ben Jackson received the Outstanding Training Commitment – Automotive Apprentice award. Ben is studying a Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology and works with Grange Resources at the Savage River mine.

“It’s rewarding when people notice that you are committed to furthering and developing yourself,” Ben said. “It’s important to be proactive in training and not stay stagnant – why not learn something new?”

In Launceston, Morrie Goss was a worthy winner of the Outstanding Training Commitment – Automotive Apprentice award. A mature-age apprentice who has overcome literacy challenges, Morrie recently completed his Certificate III in Auto Refinishing Technology, with terrific support from his employer FT Guy Bodyworks.

Reflecting on his time at TasTAFE, Morrie said, “I reckon just keep at it – just persevere with everything. And if you put the time into it and listen to what the teachers are saying, you’ll get the results.”

In Hobart, graduate Courtney Wilson took home the Construction Final Year Apprentice of the Year award. Courtney works with Maverick Builders and recently completed her Certificate III in Carpentry at TasTAFE.

“Definitely give TasTAFE a go,” she said. “The teachers are fantastic – all really supportive. So don’t hold back because you're a female, or you don't think you're as strong as everyone else. Just go for it!”

For all the award winners and more information, visit the 2024 TasTAFE Trade Excellence Awards page.