Trainee of the Year

This award is presented to an individual who is undertaking a traineeship and has been outstanding in all aspects of their training.

Meet the finalists in the Trainee of the Year category for the 2023 South Australian Training Awards – what a trailblazing group of individuals!

The 2023 Trainee of the Year category is proudly sponsored by Mas.

Briar-Rose Dirix

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)

Training Provider: TIME Education and Training

Employed by: Eldercare Australia Ltd

Briar-Rose's life changed when she enrolled in Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) through TIME Education and Training.

As a single parent, she initially lacked the financial stability to chase her dream of returning to the workforce and gaining a qualification. Persistence led her to a traineeship in age care through a job site, specialising in palliative care - it felt perfect.

Briar-Rose has now gained a meaningful career and qualification, fantastic work-life balance and is a homeowner.

Grateful to have a career she is so passionate about, everyday Briar-Rose works with a full heart, knowing her care matters and she has a significant impact on people’s lives.

Rachael Kelly

Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice

Training Provider: Real Estate Training Academy

Employed by: Key 2 Sale

Enthusiasm about real estate was initially sparked for Rachael through work experience.

She went onto full-time employment at Key 2 Sale as their Buyer Liaison in regional SA’s OB Flat, completing her second traineeship in a Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice, securing sales representative and auctioneer licenses.

Rachael earned a Diploma in Property (Agency Management) through online training. Rachael is passionate about design, architectural history, property sales and helping clients.

She is interested in the deep psychological need for not just a house but a home, believing everyone deserves a sense of security and belonging, and seeks to play an active role in this.

Rachael is forever grateful for the opportunities VET brings.

Thomas Hall

Certificate III in Hospitality

Training Provider: Quality Training College

Group Training Organisation: Murraylands Training & Employment (mteSA)

Host Employer: Lot 100

Thomas chose hospitality because he loves cooking and talking to people.

Through a connection while employed at the Hahndorf Market, Thomas approached Lot 100 - the home of five of SA’s best, forward-thinking food and craft beverage producers, in the Hay Valley in the Adelaide Hills.

He has now completed a Certificate lll in Hospitality, through Quality Training College, employer Murraylands Training and Employment (mteSA) and Lot 100.

Thomas was awarded mteSA’s 2022 School-Based Trainee of the Year.

He knew that the school environment didn't play to his strengths, but though a traineeship, is proud to have completed SACE while gaining a valuable qualification in hospitality to take into the future.

Tracey Gill

Certificate III in Business

Training Provider: North East Vocational College

Employed by: Statewide Group Training SA

Tracey decided it was time for a new challenge and a new career direction after many years in retail. She became eager to develop skills across all areas in business administration to meet her career growth goals.

In January 2022, Tracey joined Statewide Group Training SA, as a payroll officer, enrolled in a traineeship then completed Certificate III in Business through North East Vocational College. Completing a traineeship while working was a great advantage.

Combining work with training gave Tracey a better understanding of the key competencies within each unit and how to apply them to her new role.

Since taking the step to explore possibilities, Tracey has expanded her skills and knowledge, for valuable personal growth and development. She is excited to see where her new career path will lead.