NOT every plumber gets the opportunity to use their skills to win a trip to the other side of the world.
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Bendigo’s Patrick Keating will have the chance to take on the country’s top plumbers in Sydney next month as he represents Team Victoria at WorldSkills, with a ticket to the international competition in Russia as the prize.
He earned his spot on the team after performing well at the regional competition.
The WorldSkills event involves time-based challenges involving increasingly complex plumbing challenges, as well as knowledge-based components.
Mr Keating, who works at Phoenix Plumbing in East Bendigo, said the competition would help him to expand his skills.
“I’ve never participated in a skills competition like this. It’s going to be a pretty exciting experience and I think it’ll open up a lot of opportunities for me,” he said.
The 21-year-old has been completing his plumbing apprenticeship through Bendigo TAFE. He became interested in a career as a plumber after a work experience stint in secondary school.
Bendigo TAFE chief executive officer Trevor Schwenke said WorldSkills competitions were a good way to build networks and showcase your skills.
“It’s also a platform for the next generation of leaders and innovators, with many young people launching international careers through various scholarships available for top contestants,” he said.