Students showcase their practical skills

The local heat of WorldSkills showcased the skills, dedication and passion of VET students in their trades, providing them with a valuable opportunity to compete, learn and grow, while also highlighting the significant impact of vocational education on the workforce.

As these 15 students advance in their careers, their participation in WorldSkills will undoubtedly be a defining moment in their professional journeys.

WorldSkills 2024 is an international competition that celebrates and promotes excellence in vocational education and training. It offers a platform for young people from across Australia to showcase their expertise in a variety of technical and vocational fields.

By highlighting the crucial role these skills play in global economies, WorldSkills underscores the prestige associated with mastering a particular trade or profession.

The competition not only emphasises the importance of vocational careers but also contributes to bridging the skills gap across industries.

For the 15 winners from the Limestone Coast, participating in WorldSkills was more than just a competition; it was an opportunity to gain invaluable experience, learn from peers and experts, and set the stage for a successful career.

The event instilled a sense of pride in their chosen fields and motivated them to strive for further excellence.

This year’s local heat involved many talented students, each specialising in the following areas:

Cookery – Students showcased their understanding of flavour balance, food presentation and technical cooking methods, such as grilling, and pastry-making.

Food and Beverage Service – Competitors were judged on their ability to provide exceptional customer service, their knowledge of beverages and their ability to mix mocktails, and serve dishes.

Electrotechnology – In this category, students demonstrated knowledge of safety regulations, electrical wiring systems, and problem-solving skills, showcasing the importance of precision and attention to detail in Electrotechnology.

Hairdressing – Students specialising in hairdressing displayed their ability to meet client needs in a fast-paced salon environment.

Construction –Competitors demonstrated their ability to read blueprints, measure accurately and build structures that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Mount Gambier High School Vocational Pathways Coordinator said as a VET Leader, she was immensely proud of the students’ dedication and hard work throughout the competition.

“Their commitment, professionalism, and exceptional skills in their chosen fields were on full display. In events like the WorldSkills Challenge, these young professionals not only showcase their talents but also elevate industry standards,” he said. “Their participation reflects a future workforce ready to meet global challenges with confidence and expertise, embodying the very essence of vocational education and training at its best.

“I wish all the luck to our Limestone Coast winners as they compete in the upcoming regional finals in Murray Bridge.”

Mount Gambier High School Year 11 student Beau Hogan was proud to have won bronze in the Construction competition at the World Skills Challenge.

“Building the Saw Horse throughout the day was a challenge and gave me the opportunity to test out my skills in the workshop,” he said. “I am looking forward to the next round in Murray Bridge where I hope to further test my skills against students from across South Australia.”

Workskills Challenge Winners

Food & Beverage

Gold – Jess Watson MGHS

Silver – Salem Damhuis MHS

Bronze – Reeghan MacDermott MGHS

Bronze – Aurora Warden MGHS

Cookery

Gold – Casey Evans NHS

Silver – Luka Andrews MGHS

Construction

Gold – Harrison Thwaites MHS

Silver – Riley Edwards PHS