TRAINEES, apprentices and supportive businesses were honoured during the MIGATE 2015 Awards at the Buffs Club last Friday.
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The Apprentice of the Year Award went to Burke Shire’s apprentice plumber David Marshall – who received a $1300 toolbox as his prize.
Mr Marshall, 43, said that nobody was too old to start an apprenticeship. He had been in the shire’s sewerage department for 12 years.
He started his apprenticeship with MIGATE after seeing his daughter take one on, and it was identified that he could qualify for one as well.
He would use his award as encouragement for others in the Burke Shire to take on apprenticeships.
MIGATE chief executive Ron Pertovt said that Mr Marshall’s apprenticeship had been filled with obstacles and barriers.
“And David’s calm approach and strong resolve has been fundamental in the progress achieved,” Mr Pertovt said.
“His commitment to family, his apprenticeship, work, community and country has been exemplary in the face of adversity.”
Burke Shire’s deputy chief executive Nils Hay said it was great to see a council apprentice recognised for his hard work.
He was certain it will not be the last time a Burke Shire council employee was recognised at the MIGATE awards.
“We’re a small council, we try to up-skill local people as much as we can,” Mr Hay said.
Mount Isa Hospital Pharmacy’s trainee Tiarna Pertovt won the School Based Apprentice or Trainee award of the year.
Bell & Moir Toyota light vehicle automotive apprentice Amiel Briones won the MIGATE Encouragement Award.
Red Earth commercial cookery apprentice Patti Gaulia won the Chairman’s Award for Sustained Excellence.
MC Scaffolds won the Small Host Organisation of the Year. The award was presented to owner-manager Jason Crockett.
Mr Crockett recognised MIGATE field officer Garry Cummins for his commitment to the role.
Bell & Moir Toyota was the Large Host Organisation of the Year.
Esther Anderson, an apprentice of Bell & Moir Toyota, received the MIGATE Chief Executive Officer’s Special Commendation.
Trainee of the Year went to Hayley Wiperi.
Ms Wiperi is a business administration trainee for Tafe Queensland North – Mount Isa.
