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Wilmar’s Jack Pelleri is proving he’s got what it takes to be recognised as one of Australia’s best apprentices.

The third-year fitting and turning apprentice was named Apprentice of the Year at the Hinchinbrook Business Awards on Thursday, 29 July. 

He’s also been nominated for an award at the 2021 Trade Excellence Awards, held in Townsville this September.

But before that, Jack’s heading to Brisbane to represent Queensland at the WorldSkills Australia National Championships.

“I definitely have a passion for fitting and turning – I love what I do and am very interested in learning as much as I can about the trade,” Jack said.

It’s a commitment to training that will serve him well in his preparations for the WorldSkills Australia National Championships, where he’ll be competing against fitters who qualified at a regional level two years ago and are now tradespeople.

“As a third-year apprentice, I’ve got some serious training to do ahead of the championships,” Jack said.

“I’ll be focusing on my machining skills, and studying up on calculations for gear ratios and bearing clearances.”

Jack attributes his passion for the trade to his father, who owns a fitting and boilermaking business in Ingham.

“Growing up, I was always in the workshop with Dad, and learned from a young age what it takes to complete work to a high standard,” Jack said.

“I think Dad, along with my supervisors at Wilmar, are all pretty proud.”

Jack will head to Brisbane in late August to compete at the championships.