First female top trainee

Dunedin retail worker Rachae Lynch was all smiles last night when she became the first woman to win the trainee apprentice of the year award for the Coastal Otago region.

History was against Miss Lynch with the Industry Training Organisation apprentice awards ceremony being traditionally a male domain since it was established in 2003.

She was the first female to be named as a finalist in the competition, which recognises the achievements of the top apprentices and trainees from across 12 industry sectors.

"It's amazing to win. I've never won anything like this before ... I'm over the moon and am so happy to be recognised for the commitment to the [retail] industry," she said.

Miss Lynch recently completed her fourth year of study with the retail industry training organisation, completed while working at the Hallensteins Dunedin branch where she has been employed for the past six years.

Her employer, Craig Moffat, said Miss Lynch was dedicated to the industry. She has been appointed assistant manager of the George St outlet recently.

She won the top award over three other finalists, all automotive apprentices.

Judges John Findlay, Gary Turner and Tracey Howell awarded Sean Denston, from John Howman Motors in Balclutha, a highly commended certificate for his apprenticeship diligence.

Christopher Preddy, from Clutha Panel Repairs, and James Bee, from Lance Doran Automotive in Oamaru, were the other finalists.

The Otago Polytechnic-backed ceremony at the Otago Boys' High School auditorium last night also featured about 100 graduates from across the trades and retail sector who were receiving their national certificate qualifications.

The annual ceremony is organised by the Dunedin City, Waitaki and Clutha District Councils, and Fulton Hogan.