Aaron Violi (Casey, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

There is so much that can be achieved in a trade based career, and it was an honour to celebrate the achievements of locals working in trades at my annual Casey Apprentice and Trainee Awards. Finalists were chosen by a committee of local tradespeople and employers. My thanks go to: Billy of Babaji's Kerala Kitchen, in Belgrave and Warburton; Rebecca from Humphris Nursery, in Mount Evelyn; Faye from Rochford Wines, in Coldstream; and Patrick Glassborow from Hatrick Electrical Services, in Lilydale.

Well done to all the finalists of this year's awards, including: Hunter Gray, a third-year electrical apprentice; Campbell Gray, a third-year carpentry apprentice; Alan Hoefler, a fourth-year electrical apprentice; Liam Hyde-Brody, a second-year printing apprentice; Thomas Lappin, a third-year carpentry apprentice; and Kathryn Wheelan, a third-year sign-writing apprentice.

I particularly congratulate the winner of the 2024 Casey Apprentice and Trainee Award, Jack Howie, and the runner-up, Hayden Paterson. Jack is completing his Certificate III in Sports Turf Management with Yarra Valley Racing and was recognised for his strong work ethic, eagerness to learn and positive attitude. Hayden is a fourth-year landscape apprentice with RYCOR Landscapes and was nominated for his leadership, hard work, reliability and genuine character. It is so important that young people know that university is not the only pathway to success, and I will continue to support Casey's local trades.

See this speech in context