It all started with the nomination for the NSW training awards, which my GTES manager Amanda did for me.

The process of writing the application was long and quite large and you had to make sure that you got all the information into with a word limit. Once the application was written it was now time to send off and wait.

The waiting game was long, and then I received a phone call to let me know that I had made the interview section. The interview was in Tamworth which was to determine who would become the 2017 School Based Trainee/Apprentice of the year.

On the 23rd of June 2017, the NSW training awards were held in Tamworth at the West League Club. There was a crowd of 400 plus which included Mr Adam Marshall, last year’s trainee winner Courtney Harrison and of course, my family.

My category wasn't until around 10pm, which made it a long night but a really enjoyable (one). Within my category their were 23 other school based trainee/apprentice(s), ranging from bankers, auctioneers, to the health care industry.

I was lucky enough to win my category. The feeling was unbelievable, I never thought I would win due to the high standard of individuals that I was up against.

Since winning in June I will now attend Sydney for an interview in late July to see if I make the state finals that will be held in Sydney on the 7th September.

I would like to thank the CBA, my manager Andrew, Miss Penny Colley – Inverell High school principal, Mr Peter Dal Santo – Inverell High careers advisor, GTES, Mum, Dad, Luke and the rest of my family and friends for all their support.

I would also like to thank the people that have congratulated me on social media and in person it has really meant a lot to me.