Winning the two hotly contested Apprentice of the Year awards in last year’s prestigious HVIA National Awards is hard to top. But experiencing the epic prize of an all-expenses-paid trip to the Gold Coast 500 Supercars Championship comes close!
Thanks to the incredibly generous support of HVIA Principal Partner and awards sponsor NTI, the two winners – Heavy Vehicle Apprentice of the Year Angus McDonald from Penske Australia and Apprentice Trailer & Body Builder of the Year Samantha Hall from The Drake Group – had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend the three-day high-octane event on October 24-26.
The prize included general admission on Friday before stepping it up as guests in the NTI corporate box on Saturday and Sunday. HVIA chipped in with flights and accommodation.
Both described the experience as “awesome” and “amazing”, with Samantha saying it is something “I will treasure for life”.
Not only did both enjoy NTI’s hospitality in the corporate box (and dinner afterwards), but they also singled out behind-the-scenes access to the pits and drivers as highlights of the weekend.
“It was amazing! We did so much! I Feel so special and we got the VIP treatment with everything,” Samantha says.
“Friday night I did the WAU (Walkinshaw Andretti United) pit party and met with everyone and the drivers. Saturday, Angus and I did the grid walk between the cars on the starting lines because [WAU driver] Ryan Wood came first in the pole.
“[There was also] multiple pit tours behind the scenes … we got the chance to be on the pit’s raceway when WAU won the first race…and saw [WAU driver] Chaz Mostert accept the trophy and on the podium.
“Got photos with everyone! And met some absolutely amazing people there also!”
Angus and Samantha add that the NTI team were awesome hosts, making them both feel so welcome.
“I would love to thank HVIA for organising all the travel and accommodation for the weekend! And for giving me the chance to experience this experience! It was an honour,” Samantha adds.
“Also thank you to TruckAssist and NTI for providing this amazing experience for us to enjoy! I will treasure this for life.”
NTI’s National Development Manager – Niche Product & Services, Craig Carmody, says it was a pleasure to host the winners of the awards at the event.
“The event provided an incredible opportunity to share experiences and celebrate achievements — including a memorable pole position for Woody,” he says.
“As proud sponsors of the Apprentice of the Year awards, we’re committed to supporting the next generation of industry talent. It was a privilege to host Sam and Angus, whose enthusiasm, professionalism and aspirations for the future are truly impressive.”
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