Top youth have world at feet

Nine of the region’s best in their fields tested their skills against the country’s best at the World Skills Australian National Competition.

For hospitality student Leisha Young and cabinetmaker Mathew Burnett, it was incredibly successful – both walked away with silver medals.

Miss Young competed against five of the nation’s best young hospitality students or graduates under 23 – she had to mix cocktails and mocktails as well as provide a fine dining experience under pressure.

Miss Young said it was a confidence-building experience.

“It was great to learn from the judges,” she said.

“I also made lots of friends with other competitors – it was an exciting experience.”

Nathan Playle also had a successful campaign, coming fourth in the welding competition over the three-day competition.

“The second day I went pretty well, the first day was a bit different,” he said.

“I met heaps of people and learnt what they did in international competition. I definitely want to do it again.”

The World Skills Australia National Competition ran alongside the Skills West Expo.

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