Three Bendigo apprentices have been honoured for their achievements at the 2022 Master Builders Victoria Regional Apprentice of the Year Awards.

There were three major awards given out on the night.

Kade Loxton was awarded the Bendigo Apprentice of the Year Future Builder Award.

At the same time, Kelly Allan received the Bendigo Apprentice of the Year Developing Leader Award.

Meanwhile, the Bendigo Chairperson’s Award was awarded to Lewis Guest.

Last night’s (Wednesday, March 16) event at the All Seasons Resort Hotel celebrated the Bendigo region’s building and construction apprentices and the achievements they have made over their careers and the 2021 academic year.

More than 120 guests attended the COVIDSafe event.

Nominated by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE and employed by JD Construction Mildura, Kade got a taste for his trade early through spending time with his father on site, which later led to his apprenticeship.

The judges were especially impressed by Kade’s forward-thinking.

“With goals to one day become a registered builder and take on projects of his own, Kade is determined to reach his ambitions for the future,” they said.

“Under the guidance of his employer, JD Construction Mildura, Kade desires to expand both his business and hands-on skills.

“Kade is extremely driven in his apprenticeship and is excited for what the future holds.”

Meanwhile, Kelly was nominated by her training provider, Bendigo TAFE, and is employed by Yarrington Construction.

The judges said Kelly had been described as a helpful and encouraging apprentice who works to the best of her ability.

“Kelly loves going on a journey with her clients whilst she brings their visions to life,” they said.

“Her favourite part of her job is to see the delight in her clients when completing their job.

“Looking to the future, Kelly hopes to continue learning and building on her skills.

“Her goal is to develop her project management abilities to steer future projects for her employer one day.

“Kelly is determined to advance her career and be the best carpenter she can be.”

Finally, Lewis was nominated by Bendigo TAFE and employed by Edifice Construction.

After receiving his first cordless battery drill at age four, the judges said Lewis knew construction was for him.

“Being the first apprentice to join Edifice Construction, Lewis has set a great example for future apprentices,” the judges said.

“Lewis’s love and passion for carpentry were evident to this years’ judges.

“Lewis’ employer describes him as an enthusiastic and hard-working apprentice, with the ability to problem-solve and think ahead.

“Lewis has persevered throughout many challenges and demonstrated his dedication to his trade.

“Lewis is proud of his development over his apprentice journey, with hopes to continue progressing his career.”

Master Builders Victoria CEO Rebecca Casson congratulated Kade, Kelly, and Lewis on their award win.

“Congratulations to both Kade and Kelly for their wins and also Lewis on his special Chairperson’s Award,” he said.

“The panel of judges commented on how strong the field of nominees was this year, so that’s a terrific sign that the future of the building and construction industry in Bendigo is in safe hands.”

Ms Casson said it was pleasing to see Kelly receive one of the three main awards.

“Building and construction has always been a male-dominated industry, but that needs to change if our industry is to reduce skills shortages and have a thriving and sustainable future,” she said.

“Master Builders Victoria is committed to promoting gender equality in the workplace and on building and construction sites.”

Apprentices were nominated by their TAFEs and RTOs, and those who were nominated as best overall attended an interview with a panel of judges.

The apprentices interviewed were judged on the following criteria:

  • Preparation and presentation.
  • Work experience.
  • Knowledge and career plans.
  • Attitude on and about the job.
  • Industry representation.

Others nominated received a Certificate of Merit, and in Bendigo, these will be presented for the following trades:

  • Cabinet making.
  • Carpentry.
  • Roof tiling.