The judges described Matthew Newell as a "true ambassador" for vocational education and training, excelling in his Horticulture Parks and Gardens Apprenticeship with TRC.

Mr Newell often goes above and beyond his duty by stepping into supervisory roles and speaking to school groups about employment opportunities at council.

"If you love what you do, it really isn't work and you will live a happier healthier life," Mr Newell said.

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Justin Lanesbury, who completed a Cert III in Local Government (Operational Works), took out Trainee of the Year.

Gwydir Shire Council nominated Mr Lanesbury and said due to his high standard of performance, he'd secured permanent employment with council as a plant operator and has taken on supervisory roles in major construction projects.

Vocational Student of the Year went to Christian Fritze, who completed his Cert III in Barbering and has secured a full time position at the 2340 Barbershop.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Student of the Year went to Jacinta Rowe, who finished her Certificate III Rural Operations.

The judges said Ms Rowe's quick wit and ability to succeed against all odds was inspiration to all young Aboriginal students within her community.

Wee Waa High School student Caitlyn Galagher was named School Based Trainee/Apprentice of the Year, for her efforts in her Certificate III in Assistant Nursing at the local community hospital.

"My job is rewarding and gives me a real purpose to encourage others on their road to recovery," she said.

VET in Schools Student of the Year went to Uralla Central School student Jamie Nordstrom, who is undertaking three Certificate II courses in agriculture, hospitality and construction.

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