Hedland women, Sophie Marlow, Cadie Doyle and Sienna Bennett, announced as finalists in WA Training Awards

Three women from South Hedland have been recognised in this year’s WA Training Awards for going above and beyond in their chosen field, with the trio selected among 43 finalists. Sophie Marlow was announced as a finalist in the WA trainee of the year award while Cadie Doyle and Sienna Bennett were announced as finalists in the WA school-based apprentice of the year award. Ms Marlow enrolled in a certificate four in business online through North Regional Tafe while working full-time as a trainee at the Town of Port Hedland, seeking formal qualifications to support her career growth. Ms Bennett also working at the Town of Port Hedland, chose a training pathway with the town, helping her run local events and embrace her love of sport. Ms Doyle is in a school-based apprenticeship working at BHP Rail, gaining hands-on experience in MIG and stick welding and grinding as she undertakes a certificate two in engineering at North Regional Tafe. Skills and Tafe Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said this year’s individual finalists were fantastic ambassadors for vocational training, with their unique stories representative of the many ways vocational training transforms lives. “The WA Training Awards recognise the outstanding talent, achievements and contributions individuals and organisations make to our world-class vocational training sector,” she said. “I’m especially thrilled to see that regional Western Australians represent 21 out of the 32 individual finalists, highlighting the important role our regional WA Tafes play in providing affordable and accessible training in their local communities. “I congratulate this year’s finalists, and I look forward to celebrating their success at the 2025 WA Training Awards presentation ceremony in September.” Individual award recipients will become ambassadors for WA’s vocational training sector, where they work to inspire others to take up vocational training. The 2025 WA Training Awards will be presented at a ceremony in September with individual recipients also taking home a $3000 cash prize.