Automotive stars in the rise: Meet the 2024 Capricorn Rising Stars Top 5 Finalists!

After another exciting year, we’re thrilled to announce the Top5 Finalists of the2024 Capricorn Rising Stars Award, shining a spotlight on some of the most outstanding apprentices in the automotive industry.

With over 360 nominations received, we were impressed by the sheer amount of talent and dedication on display, and narrowing down the field to just five outstanding apprentices was no easy task! The process consisted of three separate rounds of judging, with the final round involving industry experts assessing the entries. At all stages the location of nominees was removed to ensure a level playing field across Australia and New Zealand.

What stood out about the Top 5 Finalists is that they’re already making an impression as leaders in their workshops. Whether it’s taking on challenging tasks usually handled by more experienced technicians or demonstrating dedication and expertise beyond their years, they exhibit a passion that is truly impressive.

At a time when the skills shortage continues to have a real impact across the entire aftermarket, their commitment to excellence has helped give us confidence in the future of our industry. With any luck, their examples will help to inspire other young people to follow in their footsteps and embrace a future in the automotive world.

Brad Gannon, Capricorn’s CEO Automotive, emphasises the importance of supporting apprentices on their journey. “It’s more important than ever that we prove to young people that they can have a bright future in the automotive aftermarket industry. By shining a light on high-performing apprentices, the Capricorn Rising Stars Award not only recognises their achievements, but also helps to develop a pipeline of talent that will become the technicians and business owners of tomorrow.”

Now, let’s meet the finalists: Cooper Bullin, Dylan Sneddon, Marko Graovac, Megan Toia and Shalako Hauraki.

We look forward to announcing the Overall Winner in the September edition of Ignition, so stay tuned for that.

We’d also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our sponsors — Castrol, Repco, and The Workshop Whisperer— for their generous support and contributions, ensuring that the winners and their nominating workshops receive the recognition and fantastic prizes they deserve.

And a special thank you to all the Members who nominated their exceptional apprentices. Your support is valuable as we work together to shape a brighter future for the automotive industry!

Meet the 2024 Capricorn Rising Stars Top 5 Finalists

Cooper Bullin

Road Runner Mechanical Services (WA)

Cooper is a great asset to our company, who gets on well with all our customers and is great for morale in our workshop. Cooper is the go-to person for our younger apprentices and always shows a level of patience and maturity.

Dylan Sneddon

Auto Response (WA)

Dylan continually shows a passion for learning outside of his apprenticeship. He confidently diagnoses cars and is also heavily interested in the evolution of the electric car and where our industry is headed next.

Marko Graovac

Hagans Auto Electrical Service (NSW)

“Marko goes above and beyond to help customers and staff alike, always with a smile and best manners. He is very smart and was promoted to second year after just doing seven months of first year. Marko enjoys a challenge and will happily do any job he is given.

Megan Toia

Badgingarra Motors (WA)

Megan is an asset to the Badgy Motors team and will be to the automotive industry. She completes tasks to a high standard and is very thorough. She carries out services and repairs independently and is learning very fast. She follows instructions and takes constructive criticism well.

Shalako Hauraki

Ultra Tune Balcatta (WA)

Shalako showcases exceptional dedication to mastering motor vehicle repair. In an ever-evolving industry, he embraces continuous learning and adaptability, staying ahead with emerging technologies and best practices.