The Queensland branch of the LIA has selected the winners of its apprentice awards, at a dual event where its Graduate of the Year was also announced.

The awards are divided between stage one, two, and three apprentices.

The stage one award was won by Kyal Ragh of APN, with Josie Sach of BB Print as the runner up.

Stage two was taken out by Jack Kelly of Southport Printing, with Robert Edge, Amcor Flexibles as the runner up.

The stage three winner was Andrew Rett, with fellow Inprint apprentice Joshua Irving as the runner up.

Mel Ireland, federal president, LIA, says, “It is about recognising and celebrating apprentices, encouraging them to continue. As a former apprentice, training and apprenticeships are close to my heart, and we need to make them feel valued.

“That is how we retain the next-generation of printers.”

This is the third year for the early stage apprentice awards, with Ireland confirming that the LIA is considering introducing them across the country.

Lauren White was the stage three winner last year, and the runner-up at this year’s Graduate of the Year awards.

Australian Printer asked what advice she would give to apprentices in the industry.

White says, “I would say to keep at it, and do your very best. You do not have to be an expert to have a go, keep trying and it will eventually come easy.”

The stage one, two and three awards are sponsored by Visual Connections, Spicers, and Currie Group respectively.

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