Apprenticeship Awards - 2003/2004

In August of each year the Club, which played a leading role in establishing the apprenticeship system in the 1920's, makes awards to three of Victoria's top apprentices who address the Club and each receive $500 plus a certificate. 

Morgan Fisher

The first of these awardees and the winner of the Frank Newman Award, Morgan Fisher, is a painting and decorating apprentice and has had an outstanding record in this apprenticeship with special commendation given to his work as a team leader.  Before commencing his apprenticeship, Morgan had had a major battle with cancer.  Now in remission, he is committed to helping people in the wider community who are suffering from cancer.  He is keen to further his studies in the Painting and Decorating Department at Gipps TAFE and is interested in becoming part of a wall-papering guild that is to be set up in the Latrobe Valley.

Ben Meade

Ben has undertaken an apprenticeship in Construction Landscaping.  He has shown considerable perseverance in following his ambitions in this field despite parental pressure to do otherwise.  He has been selected to join an international team competing in the WorldSkills event in Switzerland.  In addition to his certificate in Landscape Construction he has completed a qualification in landscape design.  He hopes eventually to establish his own landscape design and construction business.

Stephen Menz

Stephen is VFF Grains Group Apprentice of the Year.  He comes from a non-farming family and was first inspired to enter the agricultural sector when he was in primary school.  He has now completed his Certificate II in Agriculture at the Ballarat University and presently works with Charles IFE Pty Limited at Windermere, west of Ballarat.  Stephen is distinguished by his enthusiasm, determination and drive.