Four local apprentices share $60,000 in training scholarships

FOUR apprentices from the Lismore electorate have been awarded Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships, securing up to $15,000 each to support their training.

The apprentices are among 225 recipients statewide to receive the 2025 scholarships, which are paid over three years to help cover costs such as tools, equipment and living expenses.

State member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the scholarships were designed to reduce financial pressure and help apprentices complete their training.

“These scholarships, named in honour of the late Bert Evans AO, continue his legacy of championing practical training and opportunity for all, and recognise our apprentices’ exceptional dedication to their chosen trades,” Ms Saffin said.

Ms Saffin said more than 100 of this year’s recipients were based in regional NSW, reflecting a focus on building skills outside metropolitan areas.

Local recipient Hamish Webster, 36, of Nimbin, is one year into a carpentry apprenticeship with James Irving Carpentry and Building and attends Wollongbar TAFE.

Mr Webster previously worked as an outdoor educator, cabinet maker, arborist and nurseryman and is completing his apprenticeship as a mature-age student.

Chris King, 31, of Tyalgah, is undertaking an electrical apprenticeship with Tweed River Electrical after working in hospitality, while studying one day a week at Wollongbar TAFE.

Automotive apprentice Andrew Duke, 26, of Tyalgum, is completing a Certificate III in Light Automotive Technology after progressing from a car washing role into the workshop at Tweed Heads South.

Murwillumbah apprentice Jack Evans, 19, is studying the same qualification at Kingscliff TAFE and is gaining hands-on experience at a Tweed Heads South mechanical workshop.

The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships are awarded annually to support apprentices facing financial hardship and to encourage completion of trade training.