WorldSkills

Why It Matters

Participation in WorldSkills is about more than medals – it’s about building confidence, leadership and real-world skills that prepare students for successful careers.

It also showcases the strength of vocational education in regional communities like Mildura and Swan Hill.

SuniTAFE’s involvement in WorldSkills reflects our broader mission: to inspire belief and growth through learning. We’re proud to support our students as they take their skills from the classroom to the world stage.

From Gold to Global

Among our proudest achievements is Thomas Bevan, who won gold at the 2023 Nationals and went on to represent Australia at the WorldSkills International Championships in France.

This year, he returns to SuniTAFE as a mentor – guiding the next generation of competitors in Heavy Vehicle Mechanics.

Staff Leading the Way

SuniTAFE’s involvement in WorldSkills extends beyond student success.

Our educators are recognised nationally for their expertise, with many invited to serve in official roles at the competition.

Their leadership and mentorship are a testament to the quality of training and support that defines the SuniTAFE experience.

What is WorldSkills?

WorldSkills Australia is a national initiative that celebrates excellence in vocational education and training through skills-based competitions.

These events challenge students and apprentices to demonstrate their expertise across a wide range of trades – from automotive and construction to hospitality and technology.

At SuniTAFE, WorldSkills is a proud extension of our commitment to hands-on learning and industry excellence, particularly within our trades and VET Delivered to Secondary Students (VDSS) programs.

WorldSkills Australia & SuniTAFE: Championing Skills Excellence

Meet the 2025 SuniTAFE Competitors

This June, nine exceptional SuniTAFE students – six apprentices and three VDSS participants – will represent Victoria at the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships in Brisbane. Over three days of competition, they’ll showcase their skills alongside the country’s best, supported by a dedicated team of SuniTAFE teachers acting as mentors, team leaders and judges.

Aiden Keys

Skill Category: Welding

A fully qualified engineering-fabrication apprentice at O’Connors, Aiden specialises in welding. He’s proudly representing his trade as he competes against Australia’s top welders!

Archie Thompson

Skill Category: Electrotechnology

A VDSS electrotechnology student from Mildura Senior College, Archie is a true all-rounder with a knack for maths and solving equations. He’s competing against the best VETiS electrotechnology students in the country!

Matthew Prescott

Skill Category: Plumbing

A VDSS plumbing student from Mildura Senior College, Matthew’s strongest skills include metal flashing.

Kadison Dalton

Skill Category: Metals and Engineering

A VDSS engineering student from Balranald Central School, Kadison’s strongest skill is welding. He’s taking on the best VETiS metals and engineering students in Australia!

Zane Smythe

Skill Category: Heavy Vehicle Mechanics

A 2nd year heavy automotive apprentice at Mitchell Truck Repairs, Zane’s areas of expertise include wheel bearings, brakes, and servicing. He’s taking on the best heavy vehicle mechanics in the country!

Charlie Walker

Skill Category: Construction Steel Work

A fully qualified engineering–fabrication apprentice at @ Murray Valley Lasers, Charlie’s expertise includes welding, lathe work, and hydraulics. He’s taking on Australia’s best construction steel work technicians!

Luke Fitzgerald

Skill Category: Carpentry

A 3rd year carpentry apprentice at Gowers Homes, Luke’s expertise includes framing and second fix. He’s competing against the best carpenters in Australia!

Wade Moiler

Skill Category: Automotive Electrical Technology

A 3rd year automotive electrical apprentice at Mildura Truck Centre, Wade’s expertise includes diagnostics and fit outs. He’s taking on the best automotive electrical technicians in the country!

Kye Lawrence-Hall

Skill Category: Automotive Electrical Technology

A 3rd year automotive electrical apprentice at Mildura Auto Electrics, Kye’s expertise includes electrical diagnosis and fitting battery systems. He’s competing against the best automotive electrical technicians in the country!

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