Carpentry apprentice Elliot Massina (above) from Masury was named the Master Builders Bendigo Section Apprentice of the Year and Employer-nominated Apprentice of the Year at the All Seasons Quality Resort Bendigo last night.

Elliot was one of a trio of apprentices from the Bendigo region to be recognised for their dedication, skill and hard work.

The other two winners were employer-nominated carpenter Corey Morgan (above centre) from Rupanyup and Chairman’s Award winner Sam Spedding (above right), a carpenter from Tongala.

Master Builders’ Careers Manager Ingrid Mountford said, “Elliot wasn’t always sold on the idea of being a builder. His family was already in the business, and he wanted to spread his wings in another direction. But after a few years in pursuit of a physiotherapy career, he realised a building career was the right fit.”

“Elliot urges apprentices not to hold back on asking lots of questions,” she said. “He sees building as a dynamic industry and one in which even senior carpenters have a lot to learn.”

“Employer-nominated award winner Corey Morgan suggests that apprentices get work experience in various areas of the building industry before committing to it, so they can find out what they like the most,” Ms Mountford said. “His talent for carpentry is already well-known in his community.”

“Chairman’s Award winner Sam Spedding’s most memorable project was helping to build the two-storey extension of his boss’s martial arts gymnasium,” Ms Mountford said. “His advice is to really knuckle down in the first six months and not complain about doing the little jobsn as they are all useful in the process of learning.”

Master Builders Chief Executive Officer Radley de Silva emphasised that apprentices are essential to Victoria’s building industry.

“We have a strong need to grow our skilled workforce in the building and construction industry so that it will continue to provide the homes and infrastructure Victoria demands,” Mr de Silva said.

“Apprentices help to build our communities,” he said. “Acknowledging their hard work and dedication encourages apprentices across Victoria to continue their career path to achieve bigger and greater things in our industry.”

Regional winners are selected after an interview with a panel of three judges. Once awarded, they will be invited to attend the State Apprentice of the Year Awards on 11 May in Melbourne where the overall winners will be announced.