Celebrating Cairns’ next generation of tradespeople

Over 2,500 apprentices and trainees train with TAFE Queensland in Cairns and Far North Queensland, and Phillip emerged victorious, claiming the trophies for Cookery Apprentice of the Year and the night’s top prize, Outstanding Apprentice of the Year.

Phillip completed his Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (SIT30821) at TAFE Queensland Cairns campus, doing his apprenticeship at Salt House restaurant in the heart of Cairns City.

“I’m proud to have even been nominated, let alone win,” Phillip said. “It means a lot to be recognised for doing something I love.”

“I started off doing dishes at Salt House, and I just knew I wanted to be in the kitchen. I’ve been lucky to work with great people, and I’m thankful to my teachers at TAFE Queensland for helping me build my skills.”

“I’m happy with where I’m at, but I’m also excited to see what’s next.”

Nominated by both his employer and teacher, Phillip was praised for his creativity, professionalism, and commitment to growth – both personally and as a team player.

His teacher noted Phillip’s exceptional food presentation, mentorship of classmates, and strong ethics. “Phil always checks his seasoning and ensures that the food is cooked correctly. He works well with others and is always willing to help.”

Almost 100 nominations were received, and the judges shortlisted 39 finalists.

TAFE Queensland North region Director of Educational Delivery for Trades and Transport, Maree Butler, said the event was a powerful reminder of the impact of vocational education.

“Nights like this give us the opportunity to celebrate all that our students have achieved,” Ms Butler said. “Their stories reflect the skill, dedication and heart that define the future of our trades workforce.”

Other award recipients included Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Apprentice of the Year and Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (UEE32220) student Sarah Azzopardi, who also received the Female Trade Student of the Year award, and Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420) apprentice Jacob Smith, who was named Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Trade Student of the Year.

The 2025 Cairns Trade Excellence Awards were made possible thanks to the generous support of our Platinum sponsor Cairns Hardware.

• TAFE at School Trade Student of the Year – Riley McNeill, St Stephens Catholic College
• Female Trade Student of the Year – Sarah Azzopardi, J & R Refrigeration
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Trade Student of the Year – Jacob Smith, Simpli Plumbing

Apprentice of the Year:

• Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Apprentice of the Year – Sarah Azzopardi, J & R Refrigeration
• Automotive and Diesel Fitting – Fixed and Mobile Plant Apprentice of the Year – Cain Perry, Quicksilver Connections
• Automotive and Diesel Fitting – Light and Heavy Automotive Apprentice of the Year – Mace Courtney, RGM Maintenance
• Building and Construction Apprentice of the Year – Raeleigh Dick, Weipa Cabinets and Building
• Electrical Apprentice of the Year – Lachlan Pou, Sea To Sky Electrical Solutions
• Engineering – Fitting, Turning and Machining Apprentice of the Year – Ellen Turbit, MRAEL (Cannington Mine)
• Engineering – Metal Fabrication Apprentice of the Year – Dylan Broughton, Jackson and Jackson Sheetmetal
• Hairdressing, Barbering and Beauty Apprentice of the Year – Shannon Bon, L&L Luxury Hair Salon Cairns
• Plumbing Apprentice of the Year – Charlton Junna, Lotus Plumbing & Gas Pty Ltd
• Cookery Apprentice of the Year and Outstanding Apprentice of the Year – Phillip Mooka, Salt House