This newly added award category recognises the achievements of our Victorian indigenous apprentice and trainees and their commitment to their communities.
Past Recipients
2024 – Zelman Wilkinson – Ai Group
“Beginning his apprenticeship as a mature age student in2021, he was inspired by his father, an electrician working FIFO near Uluru, to pursue a trade. Zelman’s connection to his community and extended family is deeply rooted in his cultural heritage. Read More.
2023 – Chelsea Hill – CVGT Employment
Chelsea previously completed a Business traineeship at a local secondary school but felt coursework didn’t align with the job’s real demands. The contrast in duties provided insight into her true passion for community consultation and program development, leading her to decide on a career dedicated to working with First Nations Communities. Read More.
2022 – Donald Chatfield – gforce employment + recruitment
Whilst on remand, Donald became engaged with the Wadamba Prison to Work program – a program that provides Aboriginal young people aged 18-35 with pre and post release employment support. Donald feels this program has been instrumental in him being able to start a new life with his family. Read more.
2021 – Rodney Sutherland – gforce employment + recruitment
As an apprentice plumber, Rodney’s first encounter with Barwon Water led him to realise that he wanted to work with them. When a traineeship arose at Barwon Water, he jumped at the opportunity. His quality of life has changed for the better because he has learnt new skills that will further his career in the industry. Read more.
2020 – Nathan Damjan – AGA Australia
Nathan has learnt valuable skills, including how to work effectively as a team and prioritising safety within his workplace. He has invested time to learn the Work Health and Safety legislation and how that, along with other skills such as First Aid, can be applied to his role. Read more.
2019 – Kayleigh Gallagher – WPC Group
(To be updated) Kayleigh is working for the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) completing Certificate III in Business. She was drawn to work for the DELWP as was a good fit for her because of the partnership with Traditional Owners and the introduction of the Aboriginal Inclusion Plan as well as exploring new ways that this could evolve in the future. Read more.