Capricorn Rising Stars winners announced

Mark Smith has been named as the inaugural Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year.

The apprentice from The Battery Terminal in Belconnen, ACT emerged on top after impressing the Capricorn Rising Stars judging panel with his outstanding work ethic, combined with his passion for the industry.

Smith will take his boss and two friends on an all-expenses paid trip to the 2018 Vodafone Gold Coast 600 Supercar race, held on the streets of Surfers Paradise from October 19 to 21.

“I’m very proud to be the first Capricorn Rising Star and I would like to congratulate all of the other nominees and finalists, as it is so good to see other young people sharing the same enthusiasm for the industry,” he says.

“I hope that this initiative continues and that more apprentices gain the recognition that they deserve for their efforts day in, day out. Out of all of the prizes, I am looking forward to the access that I will have with the industry leaders the most. The mentoring will be a great thing for my career as I am ready and willing to learn all the time.“

As part of the Capricorn Rising Star competition winner’s prize pack, The Battery Terminal has also won industry renowned customer service training from The Workshop Whisperer.

Through the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year competition, Australasia’s largest automotive parts buying group hopes to encourage more apprentices to join and make their mark in the industry.

Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce chief executive, Geoff Gwilym, congratulates Capricorn on this important industry initiative.

“We need to keep highlighting the rising stars in the industry and to promote their good work to other potential apprentices.  Even more than that we have to win the hearts and minds of parents, and in particular mums.

“If mum says auto is a good career choice its more likely their children will view the industry as a good choice.  A big pat on the back for the award winner, Mark Smith.

“VACC wishes him the very best in his future career aspirations and we look forward to seeing him progress in the industry.”