Future heavy vehicle mechanics rev it up at WorldSkills competition
Central Queensland’s top heavy vehicle apprentices got their training motors running at the recent WorldSkills Heavy Vehicle competitions in Rockhampton.
Seven apprentices, five from the Gladstone Ports Corporation (GPC) and two from Boyne Smelter Limited (BSL), took part in the event, which was held at CQU’s Rockhampton North Campus.
The apprentices had to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a series of tasks which included identifying engine faults, and completing roadworthy testing, within a limited timeframe.
After deliberations, the judges awarded the gold medal to Gladstone Ports Corporation (GPC) fourth-year apprentice Corey Burfield.
“I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to compete in the competition and am stoked to have won first place,” Corey said.
“This was my first time competing in world skills, and I thought the day was challenging overall, but I gained a lot of experience and knowledge from it.
“The training provided between the two organisations has been excellent, I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t from the training supplied.”
The silver medal went to fellow GPC second-year apprentice Jai Thorogood.
“I am very happy with my overall performance and glad that I was able to secure the silver medal against the other tough competitors,” Jai said.
“This was my first time competing in world skills and I was definitely quite nervous - however the tasks were pretty straight forward and just needed a bit of prior knowledge and training.”
BSL second-year apprentice Brandon Kiss was awarded the bronze medal.
“I am extremely happy and proud of myself and thankful to the tradies I have worked with in the last year and a half. I feel honoured to be able to represent Boyne Smelter in the World Skills competition,” he said.
“This was my first time attending WorldSkills. It was definitely a challenging competition, which pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, but it was a very rewarding experience.
“Having attended many learning blocks at CQU, along with my role at BSL, it has certainly provided me with the knowledge and skill to participate in the WorldSkills competition. The tradies at work ensured we had the resources and equipment to develop new skills and mechanical knowledge and understanding.”
If he meets the eligibility requirements, Corey will go onto compete in the WorldSkills national competitions in 2025.
For more information visit https://www.cqu.edu.au/study/tafe/world-skills-central-queensland-regional-competition
