On Thursday, September 6 the F Block workshop was transformed and cleared of tools and engines to host the inaugural Trade Excellence Awards.

A big crowd came along to celebrate the achievements of students at the campus with all the nominees in five categories feted for their great work and the likelihood their skills will serve them well in the future.

“If you were nominated you were a winner,” Mount Isa TAFE teacher and the night’s host Warren Turner said.

“A trade is a great career choice and your work here will set you up for life.”

Greg Mitchell, Regional Director of TAFE Queensland North Region said the event celebrated the achievements of outstanding trade students.

“We received a high number of nominations and the judging panel had a tough time selecting the winners,” Mr Mitchell said.

“The finalists were nominated for showing great commitment to their studies, a strong work ethic and for making a positive contribution to their workplace.”

Trade Excellence Awards Night winners were

 Building and Construction Apprentice of the Year – Reanna Rankin

 Automotive and Engineering Apprentice of the Year – Luke Pyke

 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year – Joshuaree Page

 Female Student of the Year – Erin Harrison

 TAFE at School Student of the Year – Charlee Larkin and Jordan Dew

On the night, the nominees collected their trophies, prizes and certificates on a new stage built by TAFE Queensland Mount Isa campus construction students with teachers making some witty handmade trophies to go with the awards.

TAFE said the inaugural Trade Excellence Awards was not possible without the generous sponsorship local businesses: Ashdown-Ingram, BOC, Elliot Timber Sales, Haymans Electrical and Data, Mount Isa Hire Service and Sales and Welders Pro Shop.

The awards were timed to coincide with National Skills Week (August 27 – September 2).