Day 3 of the 2016 National Competition

The flames have been extinguished, the bricks are stored away, the makeup brushes have been cleaned and the hearts of over 500 young men and women are soaring tonight as they reflect on the unforgettable three days of the 2016 WorldSkills Australia National Competition.

Days 1 and 2 of the National Competition provided inspiration for thousands of students, but Day 3 was truly a family affair.  Members of the public joined the competitors’ family and friends to cheer them on during the race to the finish.  There were very few dry eyes around the competition halls throughout the afternoon as the countdown to ‘Tools down!’ commenced in each skill area.  Interspersed with groups of competitors laughing and congratulating their new friends on a job well done were parents holding on tightly to their children, eyes full of love and brimming with tears of pride.  For the competitors, adrenaline and doubts gave way to an amazing sense of achievement and a newfound confidence that nothing can surpass.

The three days of the 2016 National Competition were truly a life-changing experience for all involved: Competitors and their loved ones, the judges and volunteers whose support and expertise guided these young people through their journey, the dedicated organisations that helped make the event possible and, indeed, every member of our staff.  These brave young men and women never cease to inspire the WorldSkills Australia family.  As we look forward to tomorrow night’s announcement of who will go home with the gold, silver and bronze medals, we feel privileged to have shared this experience with so many wonderful people.

The Closing Ceremony of the 2016 National Competition will be held from 5:00pm to 8:00pm.  Tune into Facebook and Twitter for real-time updates on whose hard work and determination will pay off as they are named WorldSkills Australia’s next National Champions.