Young jewellers wow at the International Jewellery Fair

It was Sydney’s turn to be wowed by this year’s national competitors, this time at the International Jewellery Fair.

Tyrus Shay and Nicolai Tharaap Proesser demonstrated their jewellery-making skills in front of thousands of visitors and exhibitors from 27-29 August at the Sydney Exhibition Centre. The event was a valuable training exercise for the boys, who are currently in the final stages of preparation for their shot at greatness at the 2016 WorldSkills Australia National Competition, Melbourne next month. Tyrus and Nicolai worked on the 2014 National Competition project in a mock competition setting, using the same materials, equipment and time limits as they can expect at this year’s National Competition.

“I enjoyed getting a little taste of what the competition will be like,” says Nicolai. “It really brought out some of the things that I have to work on before the competition such as time management and planning.”

Their attendance at the IJF was generously supported by WorldSkills Australia partners Pallion and Australian Jewellery Supplies, who provided Tyrus and Nicolai with all of the materials and equipment they required for the event. Six of TAFE NSW’s jewellery instructors – Nicholas Marshall, Byron Moore, Rebecca Jones, Luke Parsons, Paul Boyle and Gary Thyregood – also generously donated their time and expertise during the IJF to mentor Tyrus and Nicolai and help them make the most of this opportunity.

“Time and again, we are humbled by the generous support of our volunteers and industry,” says CEO Brett Judd. “The dedicated individuals and organisations that have supported Tyrus and Nicolai’s efforts at the International Jewellery Fair are examples of how a little bit of dedication and a lot of passion can change lives.

“We look forward to seeing what Tyrus and Nicolai bring to the National Competition next month.”

Come see Tyrus and Nicolai in action at the 2016 WorldSkills Australia National Competition, Melbourne! The National Competition will be held from 6-8 October at Melbourne Showgrounds, and tickets are FREE! To register, visit: http://bit.ly/2c6FhcL