Three Gippsland apprentices have been honoured for their achievements at the 2022 Master Builders Victoria Regional Apprentice of the Year Awards.

Andre Regli was awarded the Gippsland Apprentice of the Year Future Builder Award.

At the same time, Jenneke Kijlstra-Shone received the Gippsland Apprentice of the Year Developing Leader Award.

Meanwhile, the Gippsland Chairperson’s Award was awarded to Taj Lyttle.

Last night’s (Thursday, February 24) event at the Traralgon Vineyard celebrated the Gippsland region’s building and construction apprentices and the achievements they have made over their careers and the 2021 academic year.

Andre was nominated by TAFE Gippsland and is employed by Regli & Sons Pty Ltd.

The judges were especially impressed by Andre’s forward-thinking.

“With a goal to one day become a registered builder and finish his Certificate IV, Andre is determined to reach his ambitions no matter the challenges,” the judges said.

“Andre is extremely driven in his apprenticeship and is excited for what the future holds for his career.”

Jenneke was also nominated by TAFE Gippsland and employed by Amber Creek Saw Milling

The judges said Jenneke loves to use her problem-solving skills daily to bring her creativity to life, particularly on assembly days.

“Amongst her busy schedule, Jenneke has a heart for her community, giving her free time to others in need,” the judges commented.

“From facilitating a Women’s with Tools Workshop to using her skills at her children’s school, Jenneke loves teaching others how to be on the tools.”

Taj was nominated and employed by AGA Apprenticeships Plus and host employer Coldon Homes.

The judges said Taj prides himself on both his professional and personal development over the time of his apprenticeship.

“Under the guidance of his host employer, Keith Donahue, at Coldon Homes, Taj has built his confidence in his abilities,” the judges said.

“Looking to the future, Taj hopes to mentor other apprentices like himself, to encourage, champion and develop their abilities in their trade.”

Master Builders Victoria acting CEO Tristan Moseley congratulated Andre, Jenneke and Taj on their award wins.

“Congratulations to both Andre and Jenneke for their wins and also Taj on his special Chairperson’s Award,” he said.

“The panel of judges commented on how strong the field of nominees was this year, so that’s a terrific sign that the future of the building and construction industry in Gippsland is in safe hands.”

Apprentices were nominated by their TAFEs and RTOs, and those nominated as best overall attended an interview with a panel of judges.

The apprentices interviewed were judged on the following criteria:

  • Preparation and presentation.
  • Work experience.
  • Knowledge and career plans.
  • Attitude on and about the job.
  • Industry representation.

Others nominated receive a Certificate of Merit, and in Gippsland, these will be presented for the following trades:

  • Bricklaying/Blocklaying.
  • Cabinet making.
  • Carpentry.
  • Painting and decorating.
  • Roof tiling and slating.