August 28, 2023
Tarong Power Station apprentice Brylie Jones had an amazing time competing at the recent WorldSkills Australia National Competition in Melbourne.
Brylie completed a series of welding challenges against peers from around Australia at the three-day competition held at the Melbourne Convention Centre.
“While competing at WorldSkills was definitely nerve-wracking, it was an unforgettable trip,” Brylie said.
“On the first day we had to weld test plates, using flux core, MIG and stick welds in different configurations. The test plates were then x-ray inspected that evening.
“On the second day we had to weld a pressure vessel which was then pumped full of water to see if it leaked. This was one of the more trickier tasks, as the vessel had to be welded in position.
“And on the third day we welded two boxes, one out of aluminium and the other from stainless steel with a TIG welder.
“I was out of my comfort zone but there was a lot of excitement to accompany my nerves.”
Brylie, who is completing a TAFE Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade Boilermaking/Welding, said she had to quickly “get comfortable” in the competition.
“Using equipment and welders that I have never used before was definitely a steep learning curve,” she said.
“While I didn’t place, and we don’t know the final scores for all the competitors in my category, it doesn’t matter.
“It was an amazing experience and one I will never forget!”
TAFE Queensland engineering teacher and WorldSkills mentor Peter Town worked closely with Brylie in the months leading up to the competition, advancing her welding skills at the Kingaroy TAFE campus.
“Brylie is a very dedicated apprentice and was prepared to put in the hard work and time to practice and perfect her skills prior to the competition,” Peter said.
“Before she headed off to Melbourne we had already come to the conclusion that she had won, regardless of her final result.
“From a professional development perspective, Brylie has added some fantastic new skills to her tool kit as a result of the additional training and experience and the backing of her employer.
“On behalf of the team at TAFE Queensland, I would like to congratulate Brylie on her remarkable achievements representing herself, her trade and the region on the national stage.”
Tarong Power Station general manager Michael Joy said Brylie provided an outstanding example of how ambition and determination can lead to great things.
“We are incredibly proud of Brylie of her achievements at the World Skills National Competition, from winning a gold medal at the regionals to qualifying for the nationals,” he said.
“Her determination and hard work have paid off and we are delighted to be able to celebrate this success with her and the team at Tarong Power Station who have supported her along the way.
“She is an inspirational role model for our other apprentices and will likely ignite the spark in other young women interested in a career in the energy industry.”
- Related article: Brylie’s Off To Melbourne
