South West Apprentices honoured for their achievements at 2025 Master Builders Victoria Regional Apprentice of the Year Awards.

Three South West region apprentices have been honoured for the quality of their work at Master Builders Victoria’s Regional Apprentice of the Year Awards, held last night in Geelong.

Eva Hay from East Geelong was awarded the South West Chairperson’s Award at a celebration on Thursday, March 20 at the Geelong Performing Arts Centre, attended by more than 200 guests.

Employed by Prime White Painting and nominated by Gordon TAFE, the judges in this year’s awards commended Eva, who is a 3rd year painting and decorating apprentice, for ‘her exceptional skills, dedication, and strong work ethic’.

“Eva’s passion for the arts naturally led her into the industry, where she finds joy in seeing projects come to life with a beautiful finish,” noted the judges.

“Eva has consistently gone above and beyond to overcome obstacles and prove herself. She serves as an inspiration to other apprentices and takes great pride in her growth throughout her apprenticeship journey.”

Third year carpentry apprentice Ben Chambers from Point Cook took home the South West Apprentice of the Year, Future Builder Award.

Nominated by both his training provider,Victoria University Polytechnic and employer Noordenne Constructions, the judges noted that Ben was a strong nominee demonstrating his skills and knowledge right through his apprenticeship.

“Ben started his construction career as a laborer, spending five years gaining hands-on experience before taking the next step and applying for a Carpentry apprenticeship with the same company. Working with experienced carpenters, he has built a strong skill set and gained valuable knowledge across both the domestic and commercial sectors.”

The final award of the night, the South West Apprentice of the Year Developing Leader Award was awarded to Jack Logan, a 4th year carpentry apprentice from Torquay.

Jack is employed by JM Homes Surf Coast and was nominated for the award by Victoria University Polytechnic.

The judges noted that Jack’s passion for carpentry and unique skill set was immediately evident to them.

“From a young age, Jack knew he wanted to pursue carpentry,” said the judges.

“Described as a strong leader, he enjoys mentoring younger apprentices, believing that supporting the next generation will help shape a better future for the industry. Looking ahead, Jack is eager to continue expanding his skills and deepen his knowledge in business and project management, with the goal of running his own business one day.”

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.

Master Builders Victoria CEO, Michaela Lihou congratulated Eva, Ben and Jack on their awards, noting the strength of this year’s nominations.

“As we wrap up our judging across regional Victoria, I continue to be so impressed by the apprentices committed to making the building and construction industry their passion and their livelihoods. It is so heartening for the future of our industry and the outlook for Victorian builders,” she said.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing who will win the overall regional awards when these very worthy winners battle it out head to head for the major titles coming up in May.”

The South West winners will go on to the overall Victorian State Apprentice of the Year Awards being held at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

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