For Numurkah’s Benjamin Millen, the week was particularly special, taking home a gold medal in the Automotive Refinishing category.
“I didn’t really expect to win, to be honest,” said Benjamin, who is currently completing a Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology.
Benjamin was crowned winner at a closing ceremony after tackling three days of competition.
Following his positive experience at both GOTAFE and WorldSkills under the mentorship of Anthony Coleman (trainer and assessor panel), as well as Mark Ward (manager automotive and engineering), Benjamin said he would encourage everyone to test themselves at WorldSkills — especially if they had a workplace as supportive as his, Harris Panel Beating in Numurkah.
“I would definitely (recommend) others have a go at it, just for the experience and the mates that I made up there,” he said.
“The whole (WorldSkills) operation is pretty cool to see.
“It’s my fifth or sixth year at GOTAFE. I’m a dual-trade, so I did panel beating first and now I’m doing painting.”
GOTAFE is a dedicated supporter of WorldSkills, a biannual program of competitions across vocational education and training providers, promoting skills excellence.
Executive director of student experience Laura Baker said the institute was extremely proud of all competitors’ efforts.
“Participating in WorldSkills encourages students to take their learning further, which increases their engagement not only in the classroom but in their workplace,” she said.
“Our feedback from employers is that students gain new skills and confidence by participating in WorldSkills.
“They then take those skills into their workplaces, bringing new approaches and fresh ideas.”
Another pair of GOTAFE competitors came away with certificates of excellence in their respective skill areas.
Nicholas Stephens, mentored by Darren Young, came fourth in the Panel – Autobody Repair competition.
Jakk Devlin, mentored by Steve Cranage, claimed his certificate in the IT – Cyber Security event.
Lachlan Dunne (Heavy Vehicle), James Lennox (Light Vehicle – Automotive Mechanics), Hayley Hopkins and Ethan Marsh (Motorcycle Mechanics), Fraser Ellis (Construction Steelwork) and Jed Coolahan (Air-conditioning and Refrigeration) also represented GOTAFE with pride on the WorldSkills Australia stage.
Stephen Foster also represented GOTAFE in Brisbane as a judge in Construction Steelwork. GOTAFE’s Kim Banfield, who was the chief judge for Bakery in Brisbane, has also been invited to represent Australia as a judge at the international competition in Shanghai, China, next year.
Mid-year enrolments at GOTAFE are now open. Visit gotafe.vic.edu.au/youve-got-this to find a course that suits you.
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