Young plumber Ashley Gibbs of Yallah scores big with the 2015 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants

Ashley Gibbs, 22, who works with her stepfather’s business was just one of 25 apprentices nationwide to win the $1000 grant, which she will put towards much needed tools. Judges looked for applicants showing generosity within the community or strong determination. Other winners included a 64 year old former shearer from WA.

“We had a number of applicants with fantastic community spirit, plus some mature age apprentices who kept their heads up despite being made redundant a number of times,” said judge and Rheem training manager Jon Palfrey.