Hamish was not only named 2016 State Apprentice of the Year but also won an Australian Overseas Foundation scholarship worth $10,000 to fund a trip to Nepal and Canada.
“2016 was a ‘pinch myself’year,” he says.
The scholarship, sponsored by Master Builders, will go towards flights, training and setting up fees on a project to build an 8 classroom school with common room and canteen in earthquake ravaged Buksa, Nepal later this year [2017]. Hamish then plans to go to Canada to train and work on building sites there where sustainability and extreme weather are a focus.
“Winning these awards has been great and boosted my confidence, it makes me feel like I can achieve more – the sky is the limit,” he says.
If Apollo Bay carpentry apprentice Hamish Rose had a motto in life it would be – ‘grab the bull by the horns’. Never one to miss an opportunity, the 29-year-old seems to have capitalised on every chance that has come his way and it has served him well in life and career.
Hamish was not only named last year’s State Apprentice of the Year but also won an Australian Overseas Foundation scholarship worth $10,000 to fund a trip to Nepal and Canada.
“2016 was a ‘pinch myself’year,” he says.
The scholarship, sponsored by Master Builders, will go towards flights, training and setting up fees on a project to build an 8 classroom school with common room and canteen in earthquake ravaged Buksa, Nepal later this year [2017]. Hamish then plans to go to Canada to train and work on building sites there where sustainability and extreme weather are a focus.
“Winning these awards has been great and boosted my confidence, it makes me feel like I can achieve more – the sky is the limit,” he says.
His decisions to work in Nepal and Canada are based an interest in sustainable building.
“Third world countries are still building using local resources. Probably because they can’t afford to ship in or it’s too hard but I think it’s a good idea that you can build with quality local resources,” he explains.
“And Canada is at the forefront of sustainability for a first world country. They also have to build in extreme environments.”
Hamish always knew he wanted to work in building and construction but started his journey doing a Construction Management degree at RMIT. He went on to gain a graduate position with Abbey Group (under Baulderstone) but quickly realized the office life wasn’t for him.
“I went and did some travel and when I got back, I went to rural Australia to do some work,” he explains.
After spending about five months working as a labourer on projects in central Australian communities, Hamish decided the hands on work was for him.
“I went on another holiday, and then came back and decided to pick up a trade and never looked back,” he says.
“I was extremely lucky, one of dad’s old schoolfriends was over for dinner the day I decided to do a trade and he was friends with (Master Builder) Peter Tripp. He said I may have a guy who needs someone and a week later I was working for Pete.”
Hamish will complete his carpentry apprenticeship with Tripp Building in April and credits his mentorship and good fortune to Peter and his Federation University teacher Graeme Andrew who nominated him for Master Builders Apprentice of the Year.
He also thanks Master Builders for the financial support and guidance they have provided. Once he returns from his travels, Hamish plans to start his own business working on sustainable housing and to join Master Builders.
“I’d love to change the mindset of sustainability. I’d like to push for a more sustainable industry. Building using local products especially is really important to me,” he explains.
“I plan to join Master Builders as a member because you’re able to go to Master Builders for advice a lot, just for everyday situations,” he says.
“I see Peter Tripp do that. The reputation of Master Builders is good, it’s something that is well recognised.”
Hamish’s passion for the industry is infectious. Working on new homes is something he hopes to continue in his career.
“The idea of building a family home is awesome. Building residential where you can build a friendship and a bond with people and then build a home for a family - they are going to potentially have that home forever,” he enthuses.
“And it’s satisfying, you’re outdoors and able to work with your hands, it’s just so cool.”
When asked what he’d say to others considering applying for a Master Builders Foundation scholarship or award, his answer is simple.
“You’ve got nothing to lose. If you don’t win anything, you’ve lost nothing and if you do, it’s an incredible opportunity - and you might actually surprise yourself and what you can achieve,” he says.
Outside of his work and training, Hamish enjoys kayaking, surfing, fishing and building furniture from recycled materials. He has travelled throughout Europe, Africa, India, China and the Middle East and recently bought a house to renovate in Belmont, Geelong with his girlfriend Bec.
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