Riviera’s 2015 class of apprentices have stood out in their respective fields at this year’s TAFE Queensland Gold Coast Apprentice Awards.

The awards celebrate and recognise the dedication and efforts of our future industry leaders.

Riviera employees Lachlan Davidson and Corey Hamilton were each honoured as Apprentice of the Year in the First-Year Finishing Trades and Second-Year Marine award categories.

Two more Riviera apprentices – Daniel Hawkins and Cameron Wilton – were recognised as finalists in the First-Year Marine and School-Based Apprenticeship awards.

Lachlan, a finalist in the school-based awards in 2014, said he had learned a lot in the past 12 months and was enjoying developing his skills and understanding of the cabinet-making craft.

“I get to work in New Product Development two days a week and I have to say the new 5400 Sport Yacht is my favourite model in the Riviera range.”

The 5400 – created with Riviera’s hallmark spirit of excellence – also tops the dream boat list for Corey. “I’m really enjoying my time at Riviera – it’s a really professional company,” he said.

Daniel’s pride is the 77 Enclosed Flybridge, as he works with the specialist team dedicated to production of the largest and most luxurious Riviera model ever, while Cameron says the 57 Enclosed Flybridge is a ‘masterpiece’.

Riviera apprenticeships project mentor Tony Vaughan said the company currently employs almost 40 apprentices, including school-based, first and second-year and mature-aged apprentices – and plans to indenture a further 28 in 2016.

“Riviera’s hallmark ethos of excellence applies to everything we do here, including the training we provide to the marine industry leaders of tomorrow,” he said.

“A skilled and educated workforce is essential to the marine industry’s growth and sustained development – Riviera apprentices undertake practical on-the-job training in all aspects of the craft, including boat building, lamination, joinery, upholstery, electrical and engineering.

“Many of the talented people who have completed their apprenticeships at Riviera are now recognised as being amongst the best in the business.”

• Riviera is also home to the TAFE Queensland Gold Coast Marine Training Centre, which opened at the beginning of 2014. There are now some 100 apprentices enrolled in Marine Mechanical Technology and Marine Craft Construction.