On July 23, the Bega resident attended a Bosch conference in Melbourne where he was announced as coming second in Bosch Service’s 2015 Apprentice of the Year.

“I was pretty excited, as you would be,” the 18-year-old said. 

“It’s something I can carry with me for the rest of my apprenticeship, something I can show off.” 

Mr Barnes is in his second year of a Certificate III in Automotive at Anthony’s Car and Head Centre, Bega.

The owner of Anthony’s Car and Head Centre, Anthony Dack, said the award was well deserved.

“There are about 137 workshops in the group,” he said.

“We are really pleased he got it and excited for next year when he might get first prize.” 

Mr Barnes said once he finishes his apprenticeship he will continue working in the automotive industry. 

“I like fixing things for people and seeing the responses you get back from them,” he said.