Kiama resident Mr Emerson, 23, received the award for consistently setting the benchmark for high performance throughout his four-year apprenticeship, as well as his ‘can-do’ attitude.

“I am extremely humbled to receive the Warwick Tester Memorial Award,” he said on receiving the award at a special Rotary function in Shellharbour earlier this year. 

“I am looking forward to continuing to learn and develop my skills further in my current role as a line worker at Endeavour Energy’s Shellharbour Field Support Centre.” 

Endeavour Energy general manager network services Scott Ryan said Mr Emerson was chosen on an assessment undertaken by his supervisors and trainers throughout his apprenticeship.

“The Warwick Tester Memorial Award is given each year to an apprentice assessed as outstanding based on competency, work ethic and values,” Mr Ryan said.

“Matt won the award due to his exemplary performance in a highly competitive field of all Endeavour Energy apprentices in his year.”

Rotary Club of Holroyd vocational service director Trevor Elias said the award was created to honour the memory of former Endeavour Energy installation inspector, the late Warwick Tester.

“Matt is an outstanding young man who is a very deserving recipient of the Warwick Tester Memorial Award this year,” Mr Elias said.

“Warwick loved both the electricity supply industry and supporting young people in our community.

“He was a tireless worker who joined Rotary in 1987 and held almost every office bearing position in the club, including being Governor of Rotary District 9690 which covers Greater Western Sydney.”