Craig McCormack, a young carpenter from Ranceby, has received the Master Builders Gippsland Section Apprentice of the Year Award at the Premier Function Centre, Traralgon.

Craig (above, left) was among three apprentices from the Gippsland region to be awarded for their dedication, skill and hard work.

The other two winners were employer-nominated carpenter Samuel Hogan (above, centre) from Sale and Chairman’s Award winner Corey Van Heurck (above, right), a carpenter from Thorpdale.

Master Builders’ Careers Manager Ingrid Mountford said this year’s nominees demonstrated exceptional determination, focus and maturity in building their careers, and was pleased to note this annual event had drawn 75 per cent more people than last year.

“Apprentices have to work very hard for this recognition, so there is a great deal of excitement that builds up when they make it this far,” she said. “They are genuinely excited about the direction of their career.”

“Craig has had his sights set on a building career from Year 4 when he outlined his goal in a winning essay,” Mountford said. “Since then, he’s done everything possible to make it happen.”

“Employer-nominated award winner Samuel Hogan has found inspiration in the careers of other local builders and looks ahead to having a place among them as a trusted, sought-after homebuilder,” Mountford said.

“Chairman’s Award winner Corey Van Heurck initially embarked on a joinery apprenticeship but found more creative satisfaction in carpentry,” Mountford said. “Having to start his apprenticeship over again was a bold but admirable move.”

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

“Apprentices are the future of our industry, and central to the vitality and liveability of each corner of our state,” he said.

“If we are to meet the needs of Victoria’s rapidly growing communities, we need to nurture careers in building,” Mr de Silva said. “Opportunities and rewards in the building industry are plentiful, and there has never been a better time to pursue them.”

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