Ben Taylor wins 2023 Best of Bundaberg Carpenter

The humble winner of the Bundaberg’s favourite carpenter has been in the industry for five years, and has thanked his boss and his colleagues for always having his back. Ready what else he said about the secret to his success, and who made the top three:

Ben Taylor (left) with JRZ Homes director Jesse Zielke (right) after completing his apprenticeship in June, 2023. Now Ben has been voted Bundaberg’s favourite carpenter of 2023.

More than 100 votes have decided this year’s winner of the Best of Bundaberg Carpenter competition.

In a clear win, Ben Taylor from JRZ Homes Bundaberg amassed 39 per cent of the total votes, striding in front of Sebastiaan Heerink from CMS Carpentry and Maintenance who took out second place with 11 per cent of the votes.

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Ben first entered the carpentry fraternity through a school-based apprenticeship at his high school Shalom College.

Bundaberg’s favourite carpenter of 2023 - Ben Taylor JRZ Homes.

He said he knew from an early age he wanted to pursue a trade outside of high school, and enjoyed the rewards carpentry had to offer.

“Carpentry stood out the most because you can take pride in the final product, and watch it grow from start to finish,” he said.

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The 21-year-old has now been a carpenter for five years, and has stayed with JRZ Homes since he first began his apprenticeship.

Ben Taylor (left) with JRZ Homes Director Jesse Zielke (right) after completing his apprenticeship in June, 2023.

The humble carpenter thanked the company, and said their personal and professional support has helped guide him through his blossoming career.

“They’ve always had my back and are always easy to talk with,” he said.

“It’s not only the boss, but also everyone who works there, it’s like having mates that look out for you.”

Ben Taylor JRZ Homes has been voted Bundaberg’s Best Carpenter of 2023.

Ben said he was honoured to be nominated and awarded as the region’s top carpenter.

“It’s not just about the workmanship, it’s about being good to people, treating people nicely,” he said.

Sebastiaan Heerink from CMS Carpentry and Maintenance came second in the poll with 11 per cent of the votes.

Dayne Aldridge from Dayne Aldridge Carpentry took out third place with 10 per cent of the votes.

Congratulations to Ben Taylor and all those who were nominated, and keep an eye out for the next Best of Bundaberg competition.

Originally published as Ben Taylor wins 2023 Best of Bundaberg Carpenter