TasTAFE learners and apprentices put their skills to the test in WorldSkills Tasmania Regional Competitions

Published on: 29 Oct 2026

After more than a month of competition, the 2026 WorldSkills Tasmania Regional Competitions have wrapped up, showcasing the talent, determination and technical skills of apprentices and learners from across the state.

From 18 September to 20 October, 82 competitors took part in 16 competitions, putting their skills to the test in challenging, industry-based tasks and demonstrating the high standard of vocational skills being developed across Tasmania.

The competitions spanned a diverse range of industries and occupations, including Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, Butchery, Cabinetmaking, Carpentry, Wall and Floor Tiling, Construction Steelwork, Fitting, Sheet Metal Technology, Turning, Welding, Bricklaying, Plastering and Drywall Systems, Bakery, Patisserie and Cookery.

Across TasTAFE campuses, competitors worked under pressure and against the clock to complete practical projects assessed against rigorous WorldSkills criteria.

The challenges reflected the skills required in industry, from precision cutting, fabrication, welding and construction through to creative hair and beauty techniques and the preparation of high-quality bakery, patisserie and cookery products.

While medals recognise outstanding performances, the Regional Competitions are about much more than finishing on the podium. They give apprentices and learners an opportunity to challenge themselves, apply the skills developed through their training and see how they perform in a competitive environment. For some, success at the regional level can also be the beginning of a journey towards national and potentially international WorldSkills competition.

A huge team effort

Delivering 16 competitions in just over a month was also an enormous undertaking behind the scenes.

TasTAFE team leaders, teachers and staff worked alongside competition convenors, industry judges, employers and supporters to develop and prepare competition projects, coordinate facilities and equipment, support competitors and assess their work.

Their commitment helped create an environment where competitors could challenge themselves while showcasing their skills and representing their industries with pride. Throughout the competition period, the dedication of TasTAFE team leaders, staff, judges and industry representatives was integral to bringing each event to life.

Congratulations to the competitors who stepped up and gave the Regional Competitions a go.

Regardless of the results, taking part is an achievement and an opportunity to build skills, confidence and valuable industry experience.

A huge thank you also goes to everyone who contributed to delivering the competitions, including our TasTAFE teams, judges, employers, industry representatives, volunteers and regional sponsors.

As the regional competitions end, congratulations once again to everyone who took part. We look forward to celebrating our medal recipients and recognising the skills, dedication and achievements of all our competitors.

Meet our 2026 WorldSkills Tasmania Regional medallists

We’re proud to recognise the outstanding achievements of our 2026 WorldSkills Tasmania Regional medallists and celebrate the skill and dedication they demonstrated throughout the competitions.

Congratulations to the following medallists:

Wall and Floor Tiling

Gold: Josh Spencer - Bouwhuis Tiling (Launceston)
Silver: Ash Lockley - Lockley Tiling (Hobart)
Bronze: Kade Rawlings - Rhys Wells Tiling (Devonport)

Hairdressing

Gold: Sami Erends - Caj Hair and Beauty Studio (Hobart)
Silver: Kate Young - Hair and Beauty City (Hobart)
Bronze: Tanisha Clark - Mesa Hair (Launceston)

Beauty Therapy

Gold: Mackenzie Muir - TasTAFE Certificate IV Beauty Therapy learner (Devonport)
Silver: Sophie Lambert - TasTAFE Certificate IV beauty Therapy learner (Devonport)
Bronze: Phoebe Ketchell - Elysian Beauty and Wellness (Launceston)