Alex Anderson, Damien Legrigore, Jack House, Mathew Park, and Sandon Jennings were named best apprentices in Victoria at an official ceremony held at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium.

The awards are presented annually to apprentices who show dedication to their training and make strong contributions to Victoria’s building industry.

Our apprentices work in joinery [PAGE ID 76], stonemasonry [PAGE ID 289], roof tiling [PAGE ID 152], wall and ceiling lining [PAGE ID 152], and carpentry [PAGE ID 76]; and are employed by various industry employers across Melbourne.

• Best Overall Apprentices
• Alex Anderson – CPC31912 Certificate III in Joinery

Alex Anderson enjoys joinery for its craftsmanship.

Having undertaken furniture making in high school, Alex moved into manufacturing solid timber custom furniture after graduating, which led him to undertake the CPC31912 Certificate III in Joinery.

He says he has learned important skills during his apprenticeship, including the safe use of tools and machinery and computer-aided design (AutoCAD). Alex credits his Holmesglen teachers for his industry award.

"I want to make a special mention to my teachers, who gave me some of the best advice I needed to hear. They were always pointing me in the right direction and helping me find jobs. I wouldn't be where I am today without their help."

Damien Legrigore chose an apprenticeship for its hands-on skills.

While working in the building and construction field, he was inspired to pursue part-time stonemasonry training.

Damien says the Best Overall Apprentice award reflects his hard work and will help with his new stonemasonry career.

"I'm really happy to receive the award. The Master Builders Association of Victoria do some amazing work for the industry and it's great to be recognised.”

He would one day like to work on stone buildings in Europe and then return to Australia to start his own business.

Jack’s move into roof tiling was motivated by his father, who owns a roof tiling business.

While completing his apprenticeship, Jack learned how to repair and renovate tile and slate roofs, read plans and undertake proper workplace health and safety.

"If you have an opportunity in roof tiling, take it and make the most of it. Through your apprenticeship, you will learn a lot of things and life lessons, and it puts you in good stead for the rest of your life."

Mathew Park explored different trades, which included carpentry, before finding his greatest interest in wall and ceiling lining.

Whether it’s on-the-job or in the workshop, Mathew says a successful apprenticeship experience is about dedication.

"I think my commitment to my apprenticeship, putting work ahead of everything, and trying to learn and grow helped with my award."

Sandon says a carpentry apprenticeship will give him the skills to explore various job opportunities and consider further training.

The Master Builders Building Industry Foundation Award has given him confidence for his career ahead.

"The Master Builders Building Industry Foundation Award means so much to me. I know that all my hard work and dedication, the early mornings and late nights, rain or sun, countless hours in traffic, are all worth it for a job that I love."

Find out more about our building and construction apprenticeships and how to apply. [page id 201]