The NSW Training Awards are celebrated throughout the state, with 10 regional events held each year to celebrate the excellence displayed by apprentices, trainees and students in NSW.

The recent regional awards featured 35 students vying for the top honours in this year’s competition and the opportunity to progress to the NSW Training Awards in September.

The awards promote vocational education and training (VET) excellence in NSW.

Kiama resident Bradley Rimmer was a finalist in the Apprentice of the Year category, although didn’t progress to the next round. 

Mr Rimmer, 30, was looking for a career change and it all clicked into place when he “found stonemasonry”.

He was previously working in the environmental management field. 

As a mature age student he decided to undertake an apprenticeship at TAFE NSW South Western Sydney Institute while gaining on-the-job experience at NSW Public Works.

He completed a Certificate III in Stonemasonry (Monumental/Installation) mid-last year. 

Mr Rimmer excelled in his studies and was drawn towards sandstone restoration and conservation for heritage buildings.

“I have learned how to use traditional equipment and techniques as well as newer methods and new trends in conserving older buildings,” he said. 

“Stonemasonry is a great career choice for anyone who likes a more hands-on approach to what they do.

“It’s extremely satisfying seeing a piece of your work evolve from a block of stone to the finished product.”

To complement the practical skills and knowledge gained during his apprenticeship, Mr Rimmer undertook a graduate certificate in Heritage Conservation at the University of Sydney.

Since February, he’s been running his own stonemasonry business. 

In the future, Mr Rimmer hopes to become recognised in the industry as an expert in stone conservation and would like to “give back” by providing on-the-job training for apprentices.