Both men are completing their apprenticeships with Terrigal-based building company, Advantage Building, which specialises in architecturally designed homes, extensions and renovations.

“The award acknowledges Nick and Billy-Joe’s competency and passion for their trade as carpenters,” Dean Turnbull, director of Advantage Building, said.

“They both came to us this year and it’s very gratifying to watch their skills develop and careers take off.”

Advantage Building has been committed to training apprentices since its inception in 2002, and considers it a core part of its operations, Mr Turnbull said.

“We have worked with apprentices as young as 16, supporting them while they combine work, TAFE and the completion of their HSC studies,” he said. “Many of our apprentices have gone on to use their skills overseas, while others are now working towards becoming foremen in our company.”

Mr Turnbull sees apprenticeships as a win-win situation; an ideal platform for young people to launch their careers and a chance for businesses such as Advantage Building to acquire energetic, enthusiastic staff.

“At any one time we may be supporting up to five apprentices,” he said. “The Central Coast building industry is quite small and many businesses were badly affected by the downturn in the economy. Taking on apprentices is a way for us to support local youth in these tough economic times and give back to the community.”