TAFE Gippsland is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of four Painting and Decorating apprentices who were recognised at the 2025 Master Painters Association of Victoria / Tasmania (MPAV) Awards for Excellence, held on Saturday evening at the RACV City Club in Melbourne.

The annual event, attended by over 350 industry professionals, employers and educators, highlighted excellence across the painting and decorating trade. TAFE Gippsland stood out as a leader in developing skilled, job-ready apprentices.

Four of the institute’s apprentices were recognised for their talent, dedication and high-quality workmanship:

• Phoenix McCallister – Winner, 1st Year Apprentice of the Year Employer: Darren Purcell, Purcell Painting Pty Ltd (Warragul)

• Tegan Wilson – Runner-Up, 1st Year Apprentice Employer: Marcus Luscombe, Vivid Coats Painting (Leongatha)

• Leni Gliponeo – Winner, 2nd Year Apprentice of the Year Employer: Steve Shaw, Shaw’s Painting (Traralgon)

• Callum Buckland – Runner-Up, 3rd Year Apprentice Employer: Lenny and Jenny Buckland, Buckland Painting (Leongatha)

TAFE Gippsland’s success at this year’s awards is a testament to the strength of its hands-on training and strong partnerships with local employers. Two of the award-winning apprentices — Tegan Wilson and Leni Gliponeo — began their journey through TAFE Gippsland’s Certificate II in Construction (Pre-Apprenticeship) program, highlighting the important role foundational training plays in setting students up for long-term success.

Marcus Luscombe of Vivid Coats Painting not only employs Tegan Wilson but personally nominated her for the award, demonstrating the high regard in which employers hold TAFE Gippsland’s apprenticeship training.

TAFE Gippsland’s Head of Department for Emerging Trades & Industries, Alex Terranova, said the awards highlight the institute’s strong focus on student achievement and meaningful industry engagement.

“These results are a true reflection of the dedication and talent of our apprentices, the strength of the department’s partnerships with local employers and the exceptional work of our painting and decorating teaching team — Davin Nicholas, Mick Wardle and Sam Reid,” Alex said.

“We’re incredibly proud to be shaping the next generation of skilled tradespeople right here in Gippsland.”