The annual QTA event held at Brisbane City Hall shines a light on excellence in training and celebrates the transformative power of skills recognising individuals and organisations that strive for and succeed in best practice and innovation in vocational education and training (VET).

College Indigenous Ambassador, House Leader and proud Wiradjuri woman Leila Vincent won the Vocational Student of the Year category and is studying Certificate III in Fitness. The award acknowledges outstanding achievement by a student completing a VET qualification. Leila wants to continue her studies by completing a Diploma of Community Services at TAFE and wants to support other Indigenous students with their studies.

Equity VET Student of the Year winner Cardell Jones, proud Mununjali and Bundjalung man was recognised for outstanding achievement in overcoming a significant barrier or disadvantage to effectively participate in VET. He is studying a Certificate III Business and aspires to pursue a career in business banking and is already a qualified teller with Westpac.

St James College Head of Faculty - VET & Trade Skills, Mr Anthony Hill was named winner of the VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year and acknowledged for outstanding achievement by a teacher or trainer providing nationally recognised training to students. With a trade background himself, Mr Hill teaches courses in engineering, construction and furnishing with over 98% of his students completing courses, many with multiple qualifications when they graduate. Under his leadership the college offering has grown to 18 nationally recognised certificate course options for students to choose from.

Assistant Principal - Curriculum Ms Kristina Johnson praised the students and Mr Hill saying, “Leila and Cardell are exceptional young people who have taken their passions and improved their knowledge and skills, gaining well deserved success and recognition in the training awards.”

“Mr Hill combines his knowledge, skills and real-world experience to ensure every student has the best opportunity for success.

“We wish them all the best in the finals,” Ms Johnson said. 

Contestants now sit further judging panel interviews with state winners announced in September. 

State winners will represent Queensland and compete for national honours at the Australian Training Awards in Adelaide in November.