Events trainee earns double finalist recognition
Shae Ridgeway did not set out to build a career in events, but one unexpected interview helped open a pathway that now spans festivals, economic development, First Nations business support and communications.
27-year-old Shae Ridgeway has been named a finalist for both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year and Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year at the 2026 Queensland Training Awards Central Queensland regional final.
A proud Worimi and Australian South Sea Islander woman living on Yuwi Country, Shae completed her Certificate III in Events (SIT30522) through TAFE Queensland and a traineeship with Mackay Regional Council.
“I originally applied for a business traineeship, and then they offered me an interview for the events traineeship,” Shae said. “I had never really thought about events as an option before, but I ended up getting the job and I’m so glad I did.”
Shae began her traineeship in Mackay Regional Council’s economic development and tourism team before moving into the festival and events team under the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.
It was there she gained hands-on experience across major community events, including the Mackay Festival of Arts and Global Grooves.
“The Mackay Festival of Arts was where I really got into the thick of event planning,” she said. “It was fast paced and challenging, but amazing.”
As part of the festival, Shae liaised with 36 event organisers and helped deliver the 2025 program, which included council-led events across the region and support for a broader calendar of community activities. Her role also involved artist contract management, finance administration, stakeholder communication and social media.
“There are so many things that go into event planning that you don’t realise until you are in it,” Shae said. “I learnt so much across the whole process, from working with organisers and sponsors to helping bring the program together.”
Since completing her traineeship, Shae has continued to build a career across economic development, events and community-focused work.
She was awarded an Indigenous Economic Development Professional Scholarship by Economic Development Australia, which allowed her to attend a national roadshow in Brisbane and connect with practitioners across the sector.
She now works as a Business Development Officer with Queensland Trading Tracks, supporting Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and First Nations businesses.
Shae said that work has also helped her strengthen her own cultural connection.
“I didn’t really grow up immersed in my culture, but it is something I have been able to connect with through my work,” she said. “Being able to support other people through those pathways is really special to me.”
Her experience in events has also shaped her next steps. Shae is now studying a Bachelor of Communication, majoring in social media and visual communication, after discovering a passion for marketing and communications during her traineeship.
“I ran the Mackay Festivals social media accounts, and that is where I found a real passion for marketing and communications,” she said. “I love economic development, but I also love being creative.”
Looking ahead, Shae hopes to continue building experience across both areas, with a long-term goal of one day running her own business supporting festivals, artists, live music and events through marketing and communications.
Being named a double finalist at the Queensland Training Awards has been an unexpected milestone.
“It was honestly really unbelievable,” Shae said. “I did not expect it, but it is exciting and really nice to have that work recognised. I am very proud of it.”
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said Shae’s double finalist recognition was a tremendous achievement and a proud moment for the region.
He said it also highlighted the value of creating local training pathways.
“Shae’s success is a wonderful example of what can happen when local people are given the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to their community,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Through her traineeship with council, Shae gained hands-on experience delivering events that bring people together, celebrate our region and create lasting community impact.
“Apprenticeships and traineeships can open doors people may not have considered before, giving them the confidence, experience and support to take that first step in their careers right here in the Mackay region. Shae’s story shows how powerful that first opportunity can be.”
For Shae, the traineeship did more than introduce her to events. It helped her discover the kind of work she wants to keep building on: creative, community-connected and focused on opening opportunities for others.