THERE’S a lot more to bricklaying that just placing a few bricks and mortar together, and Kevin Sawdy and Michael Ingwersen should know.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The two Bathurst bricklaying apprentices are set to compete in the biennial Golden Trowel Competition, Australia’s only team blocklaying event.
Held in western Sydney next month the event will see them put their skills to the test against the best in Australia.
TAFE NSW Bathurst bricklaying teacher Peter Moore has taught the two men during their apprenticeships.
“I nominated these boys [to compete], they’re the best boys in the group,” he said.
Mr Moore said during the Golden Trowel, competitors will have to do much more complex work than just build a wall.
“They’ll use large concrete blocks over two days, it’s all decorative block work,” he said.
“It’s a lot more difficult, there’s a lot of pressure.”
Fourth year apprentice Mr Sawdy, who is employed by Skillset Workforce but hosted out to JA & T Grives Bricklaying, said he was not nervous about taking part in the national competition.
While second year apprentice Mr Ingwersen, who is employed by Jamie Stevens Bricklaying, said he was looking forward to getting involved.
Success at the Golden Trowel is not new to Bathurst bricklayers, Mr Moore said, with the competition won three times in the past by someone from the city.
The 13th Golden Trowel Awards will be held at TAFE NSW Nirimba College from October 15-17.