On your marks, get set…Go! Day one of competition kicks off!

The Skillaroos arrived on site bright and early today for day one of the 42^nd WorldSkills International Competition. The air was thick with excitement and anticipation as the Skillaroos grappled with the nerves and realisation that the moment was finally here.

Before the team made their way through the doors of the venue, WorldSkills Australia CEO, Mark Callaghan read to the group some of the letters of support which have flowed in from Australia, before sharing his own inspirational words. “You’re almost there, this is the moment. Have confidence in yourself. You are here for a reason. You are the best in Australia and to be the best in country is a pretty amazing thing. Work hard, enjoy the moment and remember that you have the support of the nation behind you,” said Mark.

At 8:00am, the Skillaroos walked through the doors and by 9:00am, each competitor had their tools in hand and heads down focusing on getting off the best start possible.

Day one of competition saw Wall and Floor Tiling Skillaroo, Luke Wray, start on his innovative wall and floor tiling design which includes a 3 dimensional map of Germany, while Alden Meale and Ryan Dahlblom commenced construction of their 7m X 7m contemporary German style garden equipped with a herb garden, water feature, day bed, bench seat and approximately 300 plants and trees.

View the images and watch the video footage from day one of the competition.