Hauraki and Thames Coromandel celebrated the graduation of many apprentices and other students who attained industry qualifications in a simple ceremony at Ngatea recently. A total of 23 graduates received their awards at the formal ceremony where Mayors Barriball and Tregidga welcomed the audience and acknowledged the contribution industry makes to the Hauraki and Thames-Coromandel community.

Under the umbrella of Mayors Taskforce for Jobs, ceremonies such as this have been held throughout the country to honour those who have gained industry qualifications. It is to be hoped that many of these motivated people will continue in our communities to be the basis of a well-trained workforce.

Industry training graduations are all about recognising achievements and giving families, friends and employers the opportunity to celebrate the success of industry trainees and Modern Apprentices who have achieved their qualifications in the last year.

A graduation ceremony is also time for the local Mayor or Mayors, their Councillors and Industry Training Organisations (ITOs) to thank employers for their commitment to training.