Riviera Receives 2025 Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal
National Apprenticeship Week Australia celebrates the role of apprenticeships and traineeships in building the skills and confidence of individuals and strengthening the industries and economy of our nation, the apprentices themselves, and those who support them. As part of the celebrations, MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees award an Apprenticeships Leadership Medal to honour organisations that show outstanding dedication to apprenticeship training and development.
During National Apprenticeship Week 2025, MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees awarded Riviera Australia the prestigious 2025 Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal in recognition of its exceptional commitment to apprenticeship training and development. During an invitation-only business luncheon celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, Keira Badke, Apprentice and Training Manager at Riviera, accepted the medal on behalf of the company’s 950-plus strong team.
A Legacy of Excellence in Training
Riviera’s selection by the MIGAS Board of Directors reflects Riviera’s long-term investment in apprenticeship training, commitment to diverse participation, and strong partnerships with schools and industry.
“Riviera has shown a demonstrable long-term investment in apprenticeship training, increased diverse participation, and established partnerships with schools and industry,” said David Hoey, Chief Executive Officer of MIGAS. “The quality of formal and on-the-job training is first rate, and apprentices are learning in cutting-edge workshops, in a highly supportive environment, to transform their raw talent into master craftsmanship.”
Building World-Class People for World-Class Yachts
It’s no wonder Riviera won the award. As Australia’s premier luxury motor yacht builder, Riviera has maintained an apprenticeship program since the early 1990s, training over 400 tradespeople. The company operates on the philosophy that building world-class luxury motor yachts requires developing world-class people.
“Our team is honoured to be awarded the Australian Apprenticeship Leadership Medal by MIGAS,” said Ms Badke. “Our unwavering commitment to our comprehensive training program, which includes more than 130 apprentices and the ongoing development across our entire business, is the cornerstone of our success.”
The Academy of Excellence
Central to Riviera’s training success is its Academy of Excellence, officially opened in 2024. This state-of-the-art facility features two halls of fame celebrating graduated apprentices who now hold key positions within the company, alongside an impressive display of Riviera’s national and international awards.
The company’s apprenticeship program exceeds industry standards and emphasises cutting-edge technology and techniques, ensuring apprentices receive the highest quality training in both formal education and on-the-job experience.
“This award is a direct reflection of the dedication of our owner, Rodney Longhurst, and his entire team to relentless improvement and refinement in every aspect of our business, most importantly in the development of our people,” Ms Badke added.
Creating Pathways to Success
The Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal celebrates organisations that create fertile ground for people to thrive in trade careers and beyond. Riviera’s recognition during National Apprenticeship Week 2025 highlights the vital role that committed employers play in shaping Australia’s skilled workforce.
National Apprenticeship Week serves to recognise excellence in apprenticeship training across the country and inspire more employers to invest in the development of apprentices and trainees.
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