Bendigo Apprentices honoured for their achievements at 2023 Master Builders Victoria Regional Apprentice of the Year Awards

Education for builders and consumers should be a key pillar amid the shift in energy requirements for new homes, Master Builders Victoria chief executive Michaela Lihou says.

In welcoming the State Government decision to connect new homes and residential subdivisions to all electric networks from January 1, 2024, Ms Lihou says consumers and builders can each play a part in a cleaner and more sustainable future.

“Creating a pathway to a cleaner and more sustainable future is a big part of our vision for the Victorian building and construction industry,” Ms Lihou said.

“The decision to cease gas installation on greenfield building sites underscores a commitment for future generations but it’s important for Victorian consumers to have the freedom to make informed choices that suit their needs.

“It means state and federal governments must continue to engage with industry stakeholders to develop comprehensive policies that consider the varied energy requirements of different consumers and building types.”

The investment into training for the sector to understand electrification is welcomed and would also help builders adapt, she says.

“Victorian builders will continue to play a vital role in shaping a sustainable future for the state,” Ms Lihou says.

“We continue to encourage our members to adopt eco-friendly practices, energy-efficient technologies, and green building standards.

“By embracing cleaner energy alternatives, we can collectively make a positive impact on the environment while also ensuring economic growth and progress for our state.”

Master Builders Victoria CEO Michaela Lihou is available for comment.

Media inquiries: Aaron Langmaid | 0409 985 428 | al*******@mb**.au

Three Bendigo apprentices have been honoured for the quality of their work at Master Builders Victoria’s Regional Apprentice of the Year Awards.

Trinity Alderton from Woodvale was awarded the Bendigo Chairperson’s Award at a celebration last Friday night (March 17) at the All Seasons Hotel Resort in Bendigo, which was attended by more than 150 guests.

Nominated by her training provider, Bendigo Kangan Institute and employed by Render Solutions, the award judges commented that Trinity’s perseverance and commitment to her trade deserved to be recognised.

“Trinty’s passion for painting and decorating is clear in her approach to her work. She has a very strong work ethic, taking on extra work to go above and beyond, and she is determined to overcome any obstacles in her path.  Trinity is a very worthy winner of the award.”

Apprentices nominated for the awards were judged on their preparation and presentation, work experience, knowledge and career plans, attitude on and about the job and industry representation, by a panel of industry judges.

Hamish Robertson from Mildura took home the Bendigo Apprentice of the Year – Future Builder Award.

Nominated by his training provider, Murray Mallee Training Company and employed by Ash Roberts Homes, Hamish has already completed a year of his Cert IV with his eye on the ultimate goal of becoming a registered builder.

“Hamish has shown he’s dedicated to learning his trade at the highest level, working on numerous build projects over his apprenticeship and displaying excellent skills when completing tasks,” noted the judges.

The final award of the night, the Bendigo Apprentice of the Year – Craftsperson Award – was won by Kilby Todd from California Gully. Kilby is employed by Programmed Property Services and she was nominated for the award by her training provider, Bendigo Kangan Institute.

The judges described Kilby as an advanced and clever student, committed to working hard and delivering exceptional results.

“Kilby has worked for a company that has supported her in her chosen trade of painting and decorating, giving her a variety of work tasks which have allowed her to develop the excellent skills she now displays,” said the judges.

“Kilby has always gone the extra mile to do better and always leads the way.”

MBV CEO (Interim) Michaela Lihou congratulated Trinity, Hamish and Kilby on their awards, noting the strength of this year’s nominations.

“It’s a great accolade for the building and construction industry that we continue to see such talented apprentices building their futures with us,” she said.

“And I am particularly delighted to see two young woman in our industry being recognised for their excellence in these awards and sincerely hope they inspire other women to consider a future in the building and construction industry.”  

Others Bendigo apprentices nominated for the awards received a Certificate of Merit in the following trades:

• Bricklaying/Blocklaying
• Cabinet Making
• Carpentry
• Painting and Decorating
• Wall and Ceiling Lining
• Wall and Floor Tiling

The Bendigo regional winners will go on to the overall Victorian State Apprentice of the Year Awards being held at Marvel Stadium on Thursday May 11, 2023.