Central West Group Apprentices was the big winner at the Group Training Australia National Awards presentation held in Cairns, Queensland. Completed Graphic Arts Apprentice Anna Moran was named the “Australian Group Training Apprentice of the Year”, AJS Electrical was announced as the “Australian Host Employer of the Year”, and Nathan Clark from Blayney was named the “Australian School Based Apprentice of the Year”

The awards were presented by the Hon Jim Turnour, Federal Member for Leichhardt, along with Shadow Minister for Employment Participation, Training and Sport, Dr Andrew Southcott.

Anna completed her apprenticeship through Central West Group Apprentices being host-employed by the Department of Lands Graphic Services. She received her award from Winter Olympics Gold medallist Steven Bradbury.

Anna competed at the National WorldSkills competition this year and has won the prestigious LIA-Heidelberg Graduate of the Year Award.

“It’s a great honour to be chosen for this award. I’d like to thank Central West Group Apprentices, the Dept. of Lands team and my family for all their support.” Anna said.

AJS Electrical in has been employing Apprentices and Trainees with Central West Group Apprentices for the past 15 years. In that time the company has trained many award winning apprentices.

“We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice and promoter of excellence. Central West Group Apprentices has been an important partner in our success.” Anthony Stockman said.

Nathan Clark is completing his HSC at Blayney High School while also completing the first year of a Mechanical Apprenticeship with Blayney Shire Council. He was the first School-based apprentice in the region. Sadly, Nathan was in the middle of his HSC exams which prevented him from attending the event.

“We are very proud of all of our award winners. To win these National awards is an outstanding achievement and a great result for regional NSW” said CWGA CEO Ben Bardon.

The Group Training Australia National Awards seek to acknowledge the Nations highest achievers in Vocational training.