About 55 Otago and Southland forestry trainees gathered in Balclutha on Friday night for their annual graduation, with a Dunedin man gaining the top regional title.
The Forestry Industry Training and Education Council (Fitec) graduates gained national certificates in forestry disciplines including silviculture, harvesting and sawmilling, and business skills that cover supervision and leadership qualifications.
At the event, the Southern Wood Council named Dunedin-based Gareth Williams as the 2012 Modern Apprentice of the Year. The 23-year-old has worked for Mosgiel company Gamble Forest Harvesting for almost five years.
Fitec Otago-Southland regional training adviser Phil Williams said Mr Williams was passionate about the industry, and had a positive attitude and good work ethic.
About 55 graduates received 70 national certificates at the event.
