Two young learners have been celebrated as the most accomplished and passionate players in the vocational education and training (VET) sector at the 2025 Western Sydney & Blue Mountains Regional Training Awards.
The awards celebrate the success of local VET learners and teachers who have made outstanding contributions to their workplaces and industries.
Taking out the Apprentice of the Year category is Lochlan Leonard, who is celebrated for his willingness to learn, adaptability in the constantly evolving meat industry and resilience in the face of personal hardships while completing his Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher).
In just his third year of his apprenticeship, Lochlan was promoted to assistant manager in recognition of his leadership and contribution to the community.
In the racing field, Erin Lowry has earned the Trainee of the Year title for her work as a stablehand at Godolphin, which saw her rise quickly through the ranks to become a strapper and junior foreman looking after elite horses.
Drawn to the intricate nature of equine genetics, Erin completed her Certificate III in Racing (Stablehand), on top of a double degree in Animal Science and Zoology to achieve strong theoretical and practical aspects of animal care and welfare.
Winners from last night’s event will go on to represent the Western Sydney & Blue Mountains community in their respective categories as they are considered for the 2025 NSW Training Awards in September.
Presented by Department of Education’s Training Services, the NSW Training Awards recognise outstanding achievement in the vocational education and training sector, with this year marking the 70th anniversary for the awards.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:
“The finalists and winners from this year’s Western Sydney & Blue Mountains Regional Training Awards represent the premier VET talent in the region. Having a thriving and robust VET sector generates ripples in the local community with investment into spaces like healthcare, infrastructure, education, and the economy.
“The Training Awards support the NSW Government’s efforts to address skills shortages by spotlighting excellence in VET.
“Congratulations to Lochlan and Erin on your outstanding work and taking out the top gongs. Your championship of VET is paving the way for others to be inspired and take on fulfilling pathways.”
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said:
“I’m thrilled to see Erin Lowry from Cranebrook named Trainee of the Year. Her passion and dedication reflect the very best of our community, and her success shows the power of VET in unlocking bright futures.”
“It’s wonderful to see young achievers like Troy Vale from Cranebrook celebrated for their early excellence in vocational training. From construction to hairdressing, from business to animal care—these awards remind us that skills-based education is vital to building thriving communities.”
Trainee of the Year, Erin Lowry, said:
“I chose to work in the equine industry because of my deep passion for horses and everything related to their care and training. This industry offers a unique opportunity to blend my love for horses with my commitment to their wellbeing and I find immense satisfaction in contributing to this dynamic and rewarding field.
“This training pathway allowed me to further develop both my practical handling skills and knowledge of the industry to an advanced level and am extremely grateful for the entire experience.
“I chose to complete a Certificate III in Racing (Stablehand) to further my knowledge and skills within the equine industry, specifically in racing. This course has provided me with a wealth of knowledge that has not only enhanced my understanding of horse welfare and care but has also made me a valuable staff member in the racing and stable environment.
“Through hands-on training that I was able to complete at Godolphin and in-depth study, I have developed advanced handling skills, allowing me to work confidently and competently with the best horses in the industry.”
For more information on the NSW Training Awards, visit: https://education.nsw.gov.au/skills-nsw/nsw-training-awards.
Please see the full list of 2025 Regional Training Awards below:
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Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year, Katarina Ferkula-Cohen, Certificate III in Business, Western Sydney University The College, Western Sydney University
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Apprentice of the Year, Lochlan Leonard, Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher), TAFE NSW, Chop Butchery - Richmond
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School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year, Teagan Paviour-Smith, Certificate II in Animal Care, TAFE NSW, German Shepherd & Cavoodleworld
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Trainee of the Year, Erin Lowry, Certificate III in Racing (Stablehand), Team Thoroughbred NSW Training Academy, Godolphin
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VET in Schools Student of the Year, Summer King, Certificate III in Business, Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
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VET Trainer/Teacher of the Year, Sky Van den Berge, Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
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Vocational Student of the Year, Andrew Hudson, Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, METS Training Services, Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre - Blackheath Out of School Hours
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Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year, Tyirell Raymonde-Salmon, Certificate II in Horticulture, Waverley Council
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School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year, Troy Vale, Certificate III in Business Australia
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Apprentice of the Year, Nicole Koprivec, Certificate III in Hairdressing, The Mane Space
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VET Trainer/Teacher of the Year, Mark Bokenham, Association of Independent Schools of NSW
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Vocational Student of the Year, Hannah Wilkinson, Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, Greencross Vets Ku-ring-gai
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VET in Schools Student of the Year, Bridie Irwin, Certificate III in Retail, Woolworths
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Trainee of the Year, Georgia Burton, Certificate IV in Project Management Practice NSW Department of Education School Infrastructure
