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

There were three major awards given out on the night.

Mitchell Crough was awarded the Ballarat Apprentice of the Year Future Builder Award.

At the same time, Zachary Walter received the Ballarat Apprentice of the Year Developing Leader Award.

Meanwhile, the Ballarat Chairperson’s Award was awarded to Mark Hunter.

Last night’s (Thursday, March 3) event at the Mercure Hotel celebrated the Ballarat region’s building and construction apprentices and the achievements they have made over their careers and the 2021 academic year.

More than 100 guests attended the COVIDSafe event, including MBV President Mark Little, Country Sector chair Stuart Allen, and Ballarat Section Chairperson David Rowe.

Nominated by his training provider, Skillinvest and employer BF & SJ Harberger, the judges’ said Mitchell had been described as a passionate carpenter with an eye for detail in finished homes.

“Knowing he wanted to be a builder at an early age, Mitchell worked hard to utilise his hands-on skills during his apprenticeship,” the judges said.

The judges were impressed with Mitchell’s forward-thinking, including goals to have his own business in the future.

“Mitchell is determined to gain his Builders Registration and continue to better himself to reach his ambitions,” they said.

Meanwhile, Zachary was also nominated by Skillinvest and employed by BF & SJ Harberger.

The judges said Zachary demonstrated great courage during his apprenticeship when faced with extreme hardship.

“Zachary’s favourite part of his job is to mentor other apprentices and impart his knowledge onto the up-and-coming carpenters,” they said.

“With the guidance of his employer BF & SJ Harberger, Zachary has been able to build his confidence in many aspects of his work.

“Zachary is extremely proud of his achievements during his apprenticeship.”

Finally, Mark was nominated by Skillinvest and is employed by Horsham Rural City Council.

Mark’s persistence and dedication to his trade were evident to this years’ judges.

“He loves how carpentry allows him to use a variety of skills, which suits him perfectly,” they said.

“Mark’s apprenticeship wasn’t always a smooth road; however, he maintained his positive attitude and self-confidence throughout the process.

“Whilst mentoring others, Mark demonstrated great patience and leadership skills when imparting his wisdom onto those around him.

“Looking to the future, Mark hopes to continue upskilling himself and one day gain his Builder Registration.”

Master Builders Victoria CEO Rebecca Casson congratulated Mitchell, Zachary and Mark on their award win.

“Take it from me; building and construction apprenticeships are a highly valued entry route into our industry,” Ms Casson said.

“It is wonderful to recognise the next generation of Ballarat apprentices who have chosen to pursue fulfilling and rewarding careers in the building and construction industry.”

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 received a Certificate of Merit, and in Ballarat, these will be presented for the following trades:

  • Bricklaying/Blocklaying.
  • Carpentry.
  • Painting and decorating.
  • Roof tiling.
  • Wall and ceiling lining.