Top painting apprentice takes out two major awards

Xanda was crowned the very best of over 12,500 apprentices eligible for the awards spanning the construction, utilities, automotive, and engineering industries.

Also the winner of the Dulux Trade Painting and Decorating Apprentice of the Year award on the night, Xanda was recognised for his strong work ethic, impressive technical ability that well beyond his experience level and also his proactive approach toward learning.

In accepting his awards, Xanda thanked his employer McNab, his fiancée Tiana and TAFE Queensland teachers for “Knowing my hard work and my dedication to my apprenticeship doesn't go unnoticed is greatly appreciated”.

Xanda’s manager, Brendan McGuifficke from McNab said from the outset, Xanda has shown a genuine commitment to his personal and professional growth, consistently performing at a high standard both onsite and in the classroom.

“A prime example of his capability was his contribution to a recent McNab Social and Affordable Housing project at Chermside. As a key member of the team, he played an integral role in patching and painting over 1300 sqm of soffits and took it upon himself to complete a large portion of the soffit texturing independently,” said Brendan.

“This intricate work is normally assigned to more experienced team members, yet Xanda delivered it to an outstanding standard, showcasing not only his technical ability but also a strong sense of ownership and responsibility.

“The Leadership Team has identified him as a future leader who could head the painting division in the future, especially as the business continues to expand. His leadership potential will be vital in building a skilled internal painting workforce capable of delivering exceptional results for our customers and addressing the growing labour shortage of painters across Australia.” he said.

With trade-specific awards on offer in 15 categories, two employer awards, and two marquee awards, the 2025 TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech Apprentice Awards, held at the Royal International Convention Centre in Brisbane, was a tribute to high-flying apprentices who are set to become industry leaders in their careers.

Funded by an army of sponsors led by Main Event Sponsor Construction Skills Queensland, the Apprentice Awards promotes celebration of excellence and of trade careers, which industry bodies, suppliers, and leaders jump at the chance to be involved in.

TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech General Manager Stephen Gates says the impact this event has on apprentices and how they and others view their careers is incalculable, having seen hundreds of proud and heartfelt reactions from winners and finalists over the years.

“When I was a coach and motor body building apprentice in the 90s, and even when I first started teaching my trade at the Eagle Farm campus in 2011, there was nothing anywhere close to this night to celebrate high achievers,” Mr Gates said.

“Watching apprentices react and celebrate at this event not just for themselves but with each other, their employers, and their friends and family is such a great reminder of what it means to them. Often these are people who would have never imagined winning an award for study, and here they are on stage at a huge event held especially for them winning Apprentice of the Year, it is a joy to be part of.” 

“I’m so proud to be part of an organisation that not only provides the highest quality training available but creates events like this one to raise the profile of apprenticeships and recognise excellence,” he concluded.