Territory shines at Australian Training Awards
A change in career direction has been rewarded with Territorian Evangelene Rushforth named Apprentice of the Year at the Australian Training Awards in Darwin.
A change in career direction has been rewarded with Territorian Evangelene Rushforth named Apprentice of the Year at the Australian Training Awards in Darwin.
Evangelene’s training journey, has taken her from a law degree to a Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade through Charles Darwin University and the GTNT Group.
Four years ago, after three years studying a Bachelor of Law and Arts, Evangelene decided to leave university in pursuit of a more hands-on career.
A solo van trip around Australia led to her settling in Darwin, completing a Certificate II in Horticulture and Conservation, and discovering a strong preference for manual work over office or café roles.
This shift in direction led to Evangelenepursuing an apprenticeship to build a long-term career.
Evangelene is now a qualified mechanical fitter with the Groote Eylandt Mining Company (GEMCO).
It was a successful night for Territorians with the NT also taking out runner-up in Trainee of the Year, and bronze awards in the Australian Apprentice Employer of the Year category and for Large Training Provider.
Northern Territory 2025 Australian Training Award recipients and winners:
Apprentice of the Year Award (Winner) – Evangelene Rushforth
Trainee of the Year Award (Runner Up) – Jade McGowan
Australian Apprenticeships Employer Award (Bronze) – NC Electrical &
Air Conditioning Pty Ltd
Large Training Provider of the Year Award (Bronze) – Charles Darwin
University (CDU)
Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles congratulated the winners and finalists.
“VET is the engine room delivering the skilled workforce our communities need and rely on every day in sectors as diverse as nursing, construction, manufacturing, aged care and clean energy,” he said.
Northern Territory Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey said having a strong VET sector in the Territory is part of the Finocchiaro government’s rebuilding of the economy.
“This year we have opened the Trades Training Centre at Charles Darwin University’s Casuarina campus with a $6.8 million investment. As a former small business owner and tradie, I know how important a skilled workforce is in the Territory,” Minister Hersey said.
Federal Member for Solomon Luke Gosling said Evangelene’s recognition as Apprentice of the Year is a remarkable achievement that highlights what Territorians can achieve with the right support and training.
“She’s an inspiration to young women nationwide and a clear reminder of the opportunities created through the VET sector,” he said.
Watch now: Waratah v PINT, NTFL Round 10
