Celebrating the apprentices and trainees building Katanning’s future

L-R: Josh Taylor 3rd & 4th year apprentice of the year (over 25 years), Matt Lamont 3rd & 4th year apprentice of the year (under 25 years), Sam McHutchison 1st & 2nd year apprentice of the year (under 25), Billy Shirkey trainee of the year.

The 2026 Katanning Rotary Apprentice and Trainee Awards have highlighted the quality of apprentices and trainees developing their skills and building careers across the Great Southern.

Around 15 apprentices and trainees were nominated this year, representing industries including building, automotive, heavy diesel mechanics, auto electrical, parts, business administration and events management.

Among them were four apprentices and trainees from the McIntosh Training Academy, recognised for their commitment to their training, workplaces and chosen careers.

Building skills for the region

Heavy diesel mechanics featured strongly among this year’s nominees, reflecting the importance of agriculture, machinery and mechanical services across the Great Southern.

For businesses such as McIntosh & Son, apprenticeships provide an opportunity to develop the skilled workforce needed to support local industries, while giving young people the chance to build long-term careers within their own communities.

Apprentices gain a combination of formal qualifications and hands-on experience, developing the technical knowledge, problem-solving skills and confidence required in their chosen trade.

The awards also recognise the qualities that sit alongside technical ability. Judges consider factors including achievement, pride in work, initiative, resilience, workplace safety, community involvement and future career goals.

According to Katanning Rotary, the calibre of this year’s nominees made selecting the winners particularly difficult, with successful candidates demonstrating passion for their industries, clear goals and a strong understanding of how their skills contribute to their workplace and community.

A strong result for the McIntosh Training Academy and McIntosh & Son

It was an outstanding result for the McIntosh Training Academy and McIntosh & Son, with all four of the company’s nominated apprentices and trainees receiving an award.

Josh Taylor, Matt Lamont, Sam McHutchison and Billy Shirkey were each recognised in their respective categories, highlighting their individual commitment to their training, workplaces and chosen careers.

The achievement also reflects the support provided by supervisors, mentors and the wider McIntosh & Son team, whose guidance helps apprentices and trainees develop the skills and confidence needed to build long-term careers.

Investing in apprentices and trainees is particularly important for regional businesses. Developing skilled technicians, auto electricians, parts professionals and other specialists locally helps build the workforce needed to support agriculture and other industries into the future.

The Katanning Rotary Apprentice and Trainee Awards are open to eligible apprentices and trainees from Katanning and surrounding communities, including Jerramungup, Pingrup, Wagin, Kojonup and Cranbrook.

Congratulations to all the 2026 winners, runners-up, finalists and nominees — and to the employers, supervisors and trainers helping the next generation build their careers across the Great Southern.

For the McIntosh Training Academy, we’re proud to see four members of our team recognised and to continue playing a role in developing skilled people within the communities we serve.

Interested in a career in Ag?

McIntosh Training Academy is committed to providing a high-quality, immersive learning experience for apprentices like Siosi. With a focus on practical, real-world skills and personalised training, the Academy is shaping the next generation of parts interpretation professionals.

For more information about McIntosh Training Academy and its apprenticeship programs, visit mcintoshacademy.com.au

We are always looking for passionate and enthusiastic people to fill a range of roles within our dealerships. If you think you can add value to our team, head to our website for current opportunities, or contact hr@mcson.com.au for further information.