The youngster was named the Apprentice of the Year at the 2018 Regional Training Awards at the NEX – Newcastle Exhibition & Convention Centre.

He cleaned up in the Automotive – Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III category, much to the delight of owner Zack Bennett.

“I thought Liam was a good chance,” he said.

“In fact, I was fairly confident.

“It is a big honour, just being nominated, and going up against the best apprentices in the area.

“But, Liam’s done a fantastic trade.

“We’re all extremely proud of him.

“Muswellbrook Automotive Services has an enviable record in the [Apprentice of the Year] category.”

The prestigious event is conducted annually through the Hunter Regional Apprenticeship and Traineeship Advisory Committee (HRATA) – with the winners progressing on to state level and, in some cases, nationally.

And, with the growing importance of vocational training in enhancing the region’s prosperity, the awards play a critical role in the economic landscape by encouraging and celebrating excellence in skills development, including metals and engineering, automotive, carpentry, building and construction, hairdressing, electrical, commercial cookery, childcare, drafting, business studies and more.