The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) has launched the 2026 Apprentice of the Year Awards, aimed at recognising the exceptional contributions of apprentices to the marine industry and highlighting the importance of training and career development within the sector.
Open to all marine industry businesses, nominations are encouraged from both BIA members and non-members. The awards target current apprentices or those who have completed training within the past 12 months in the boating and marine industry and are currently employed in the marine sector.
The awards will feature recognitions across Australia, culminating in an overall winner to be announced at the Sydney Boat Show on 30 July.
BIA CEO Andrew Fielding emphasised the significance of these awards, stating, “The 2026 Awards serve as an important platform to honour the passion and hard work of our standout apprentices. This recognition is about more than just success; it’s about ensuring our industry has the skilled foundation it needs to flourish for years to come.” He added, “Our apprentices aren’t just learners—they are the essential energy driving the evolution of the entire industry.”
Winners will receive a trophy and certificate, along with a $500 Repco voucher for each State winner. The overall winner will receive a $1000 Repco voucher and BIA sponsorship of a trip for two to the Australian Wooden Boat Festival in Tasmania, February 2027.
Nominations are now open and will be evaluated based on achievements, contributions to their employer, attitude, and willingness to learn and contribute to the industry. Nominations can be submitted via the online form HERE and must be returned by 12 June 2026.
For more information on the Award, visit: bia.org.au/programs-products-services/programs/awards/ . For information on BIA, go to: www.bia.org.au.
About the Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA)
The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) is the peak industry body in Australia representing the interests of boating, including designers, manufacturers, importers, brokers, insurers, retailers, charters, yacht and boat clubs, marinas, events, surveyors, and trades from boat builders to riggers, and more. BIA advocates for boaters and the boating lifestyle, supporting safe, responsible, and enjoyable boating. BIA has members across all States and Territories.
The BIA reported national industry turnover last year of more than $10.2 billion, with around 35,000 people employed across more than 2,000 businesses. Seventy-five per cent of BIA members are small family businesses, employing local workers and supporting local communities.
Photo caption: Last year’s Apprentice/s of the Year Award recipients with BIA CEO (from left): Andrew Fielding (BIA CEO), Will Newman (SA Apprentice of the Year), Patrick Bognar (QLD Apprentice of the Year), and Tom Ironside (Apprentice of the Year Overall Winner).
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