The South West regional awards are one of five divisions of Master Builders Victoria’s Regional Apprentice awards that are celebrated across Victoria each year, including the Gippsland, North East, Ballarat and Bendigo regions.

Daniel Currie from Lara was awarded the South West Chairperson’s Award at a celebration on Thursday, March 21 at the GMHBA Stadium in Geelong, which was attended by almost 300 guests.

Employed by LNX Constructions and nominated by Victoria University, the judges in this year’s awards said Daniel who is a 3rd year Carpentry apprentice had demonstrated great passion and professionalism in his trade.

“Daniel came to his apprenticeship after a career in emergency services, and has shown a passion for carpentry ever since. As a mature age apprentice, Daniel is a great influence in the classroom and workplace and has demonstrated great patience and leadership skills.”

Third year Bricklaying apprentice Alec Smith from Hamlyn Heights took home the Apprentice of the Year South West, Craftsperson Award.

Nominated by his training provider, Building Skills Centre and employed by Durran Bricklaying, the judges said Alec showed great passion for his craft with a well-honed eye for detail.

“Alec got a taste for his trade after a labouring opportunity and decided to take on his apprenticeship. His passion for his craft is obvious in the beautiful work he creates and his ability to adapt to a wide variety of jobs. Alec is extremely driven in his apprenticeship and excited for what the future holds.”

The final award of the night, the Apprentice of the Year South West, Junior Apprentice Award was awarded to Brodie Duynhoven, a 4th year Carpentry apprentice from Colac.

Brodie is employed by Westvic Staffing Solutions and was nominated for the award by South West TAFE.

“Brodie is an advanced and clever student quick to grasp leadership skills and opportunities,” said the judges.

“Brodie loves watching a project turn into quality work and in the future he wants to run his own business and push the boundaries of what can be achieved within his trade.”

Apprentices nominated for the awards were judged on their preparation and presentation, work experience, knowledge and career plans, attitude on and about the job and industry representation by a panel of industry judges.

Master Builders Victoria CEO, Michaela Lihou congratulated Daniel, Alec and Brodie on their awards, noting the strength of this year’s nominations.

“The calibre of talent amongst our award winners is amazing. Right across Victoria we’ve been celebrating the best of the apprentices in our regions and I’m so proud of the ongoing impact they’re delivering for the future of the building and construction industry,” she said.

“My sincerest congratulations to all the nominees and the winners.”

The South West region apprentice award winners will now go on to the overall Victorian State Apprentice of the Year Awards being held at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on Thursday, May 9, 2024.

Media enquiries: Leigh McClusky 0411 711 780.