2024 Award Winners
2024 Apprentice of the Year - Winner
Michael Grosser
Employed by LecLogix Riverland & Mallee Pty Ltd
Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
RTO – TAFE SA
Having commenced his career in a large manufacturing business and seeing that his role was more maintenance and repairs, Michael saw the opportunity to move to his current employer LecLogix. Michael has a passion for problem solving in multiple demanding environments and is gaining exposure to installation of automated electrical systems for pump stations, completing breakdowns and service for installations, upgrading existing installations and general electrical installation work.
2024 Apprentice of the Year - Runner Up
Maiya Rice
Employed by Jarahs Hair
Certificate III in Hairdressing
RTO – Clip Joint Education
Maiya’s employer , Jarahs Hair say she showcased a natural talent from day one and quickly grew her advancing skills and demonstrated her ability to learn and adapt. She is self-motivated, says yes to opportunities and has the best heart and does everything in a professional manner and handles situations with grace. Maiya is motivated to learn and not shy away from any client given, and her client services are of a high standard with many skills coming naturally to her.
2024 Trainee of the Year - Winner
Charlotte Zimmerman
Employed by Riverland Veterinary Practice
Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
RTO – TAFE SA
The Riverland Veterinary Practice first met Charlotte as a work experience student and her aptitude and attitude for the profession were extremely prominent. Charlotte has distinguished herself as highly motivated with a high level of maturity and emotional intelligence. Charlotte radiates positivity in a frequently challenging industry and demonstrates an outstanding can-do attitude to every situation.
2024 Trainee of the Year - Runner Up
Toby Johnson
Employed by Renmark High School
Certificate III in Sports, Aquatic and Recreation
RTO – AFL Sports Ready
Toby is employed as a Health & Physical Education Trainee. Toby communicates well with staff and students and in quiet times would look for other things to do that would be beneficial to the School. Toby demonstrates a high level of aptitude and passion towards his learning. He exhibits strong social abilities, collaborating effectively with peers and contributing positively to the training environment.
2024 Industry Winner - Automotive
Cameron Kuchel
Employed by Mitech Automotive
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
RTO – TAFE SA
Cameron’s employer, Mitech Automotive, recognises his enthusiasm, motivation and willingness to work from the onset. Cameron exceeded their expectation of a 1st & 2nd Year Apprentice carrying out advanced repairs and this was further evidenced when as a 4th Year Apprentice, they allowed him to undertake RAA Road side Assistance call outs which is not usual.
2024 Industry Winner - CITB Building & Construction
Ollie Pearce
Employed by SD & ML Pearce Pty Ltd (G.J. Gardner Homes)
Certificate III in Carpentry
RTO – NEVC
Ollie’s employer, G J Gardner Homes, say that testing himself both physically and mentally on the job, Ollie is enjoying working with other tradies from different fields and seeing how all the aspects of building come together Ollie demonstrates an exceptional level of skill, dedication and professionalism.
2024 Industry Winner - Commercial Cookery
Stefan Symeonakis
Employed by Renmark Club
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
RTO – TAFE SA
Stefan is an outstanding Apprentice Chef with an aptitude for cooking and ability to quickly grasp new techniques. Motivation is one of his greatest strengths and he approaches each shift with enthusiasm and his attention to detail. Stefan has cookery in his DNA and has never lost his passion for cooking and his desire to succeed.
2024 Industry Winner - Electrical
Michael Grosser
Employed by LecLogix Riverland & Mallee Pty Ltd
Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
RTO – TAFE SA
Michael has a passion for problem solving in multiple demanding environments and is gaining exposure to installation of automated electrical systems for pump stations, completing breakdowns and service for installations, upgrading existing installations and general electrical installation work.
2024 Industry Winner - Engineering
Kaleb Ivanovic
Employed by MayFab Engineering Pty Ltd
Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade
RTO – TAFE SA
Kaleb tinkered in the shed whilst doing metalwork in year 10. His employer MayFab, say he quickly became a key member of their business with his natural talent, eagerness, confidence and consistently performs good work promptly and maintains their standards. Kaleb’s objective is to become a welding inspector travelling across Australia.
2024 Industry Winner - Hairdressing
Maiya Rice
Employed by Jarahs Hair
Certificate III in Hairdressing
RTO – Clip Joint Education
Maiya’s employer, Jarahs Hair say she showcased a natural talent from day one and quickly grew her advancing skills and demonstrated her ability to learn and adapt. She is self-motivated, says yes to opportunities and has the best heart and does everything in a professional manner and handles situations with grace.
2024 Industry Winner - Painting & Decorating
Dillon Vandergiessen
Employed by Bristles Painting & Decorating
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating
RTO – TAFE SA
Dillon is working as an Apprentice Painter and says he was fortunate enough to know his employer and the opportunity changed his life forever as they took him under their wing and showed him the industry. Dillon values the opportunity to learn whilst being on site and developing his skills. Coming in to this industry has made Dillon appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into building and managing new homes as well as extensions and any architectural works.
2024 School Based Apprentice of the Year - Winner
Shamon Moroney
Berri Regional Secondary College
Certificate III in Hair and Beauty
Employer: Cindy’s Hair and Beauty
RTO: Clipjoint
Shamon views her school-based apprenticeship as an excellent opportunity for young people to explore future career options while remaining in school. In the salon, she has been described as a “ray of sunshine,” bringing a warm and calming presence to clients and serving as a role model for other trainees. Shamon’s ability to balance the demands of her apprenticeship with her school responsibilities highlights her exceptional time management skills, communication, determination, and professionalism.
2024 School Based Apprentice of the Year - Runner Up
Saffron Rumbold
Renmark High School
Certificate III in Carpentry
Employer: Clear Cut Carpentry
RTO: North East Vocational College (NEVC)
During her training, Saffron demonstrated exceptional self-motivation and clear, direct communication skills. Her ability to work effectively in a team makes her an asset to the construction industry. She has successfully navigated the challenges of the industry and appreciates the experiences and future training opportunities it offers. Saffron’s dedication, determination, and teamwork are evident at a high level.
2024 School Based Trainee of the Year - Winner
Mia DePalma
Renmark High School
Certificate III in School Based Education Support
Employer: Renmark North Primary School
RTO: MADEC Australia
Mia’s deep understanding of the role of education support in the classroom and the impact a teacher can have on fostering growth in children is impressive. Her maturity and wisdom beyond her years have been evident throughout her traineeship, where she handled complex scenarios with professionalism and composure. Her focus and ambition will undoubtedly lead to a rewarding career in Education and Allied Health.
2024 School Based Trainee of the Year - Runner Up
Lachlan Marks
Berri Regional Secondary College
Certificate III in School Based Education Support
Employer: Monash Primary School
RTO: MADEC Australia
Lachlan’s traineeship experience highlights his exceptional aptitude for education and self-motivation, particularly in supporting students with neurodiverse needs. His initiative in starting a “Run Club” at Monash Primary and Preschool, in collaboration with his supervising teacher, demonstrates his proactive approach to enhancing student learning through physical exercise.
2024 Vocational Educational Student of the Year - Winner
Zahlee Steele
Renmark High School
Industry: Hairdressing
Certificate II Salon Assistant
RTO: TAFE SA
Zahlee’s exceptional passion for hairdressing and beauty services is evident in her intelligence, enthusiasm, and deep commitment to the industry. Her dedication to honing her skills makes her future in the field exceptionally promising. Zahlee finished at the top of her class, completing her studies well ahead of schedule. Her drive and talent are sure to lead to a successful and fulfilling career in the beauty industry.
2024 Vocational Educational Student of the Year - Runner Up
Sophie Thompson
Renmark High School
Industry: Health Services
Certificate III Allied Health Assistance
RTO: TAFE SA
Sophie has proven to be highly capable in managing her TAFE SA studies, work placement at Country Health Connect, and Year 12 studies. Sophie has demonstrated strong relationships with clients and staff, showing a maturity that positions her well for a career in the industry. Her dedication and strategic planning will undoubtedly contribute to a successful career in healthcare.
